Leftwards Arrow

A symbol from the Arrow Symbols collection. Click the symbol or the button below to copy.

Symbol: ←
Unicode: U+2190
HTML entity: ←
Category: Arrow Symbols

Export

Download Leftwards Arrow as a vector SVG or a raster PNG.

PNG size

SVG uses the system font stack — open in any vector editor and convert to outlines if needed. PNGs have a transparent background.

1 of 46 in the arrow symbols collection

About the leftwards arrow symbol

Known officially as the Leftwards Arrow, this character is a standard horizontal pointer categorized among common mathematical symbols. It is typically read as left, back, or goes to depending on the specific field of study. While it is part of the Number Forms block, it functions as a primary directional indicator within the Common script, serving as a functional tool for navigation and logic rather than as a phonetic letter.

In modern writing, this symbol frequently appears in user interfaces and digital signage to indicate a return to a previous page or a physical exit to the left. Mathematicians and programmers utilize it to represent assignment, limits, or logical implications within specialized notation. On social media and in casual typography, it is often employed to highlight specific text or to visually denote a reply to an earlier statement.

How to type Leftwards Arrow

Native keyboard shortcuts for each operating system — derived from the codepoint, so the steps below are always accurate.

Windows

2 options

In Word / Outlook: type 2190 then press Alt + X.
Anywhere: press Win + . to open the emoji & symbol picker, then search.

macOS

2 options

Enable “Unicode Hex Input” in System Settings → Keyboard, then hold Option and type 2190.
Or: Control + Command + Space opens the Character Viewer — search by name.