Mathematical Sans-Serif Small U

It can name a variable, but the author decides which one.

In mathematics, letter styles can distinguish symbols. A sans-serif u may be assigned a different role from a regular or italic u in the same notation; there is no universal rule that gives 𝗎 a fixed value. Check the formula’s definition or key.

The alphabets were built for mathematical publishing, where a letter’s shape can carry meaning. Unicode already had a small group of math-looking characters called Letterlike Symbols; a 1999 proposal expanded that repertoire into fuller Latin and Greek alphabets. It chose separate characters instead of formatting tags so the distinction would survive in equations typed as ordinary text. Using these characters to fake a font for everyday words is an unintended side effect, not their stated purpose.

How do I type 𝗎 in Word for Windows?

Type 1D5CE, then press Alt+X.

Microsoft’s Word for Windows guidance documents this Unicode-hex method as of 2026. Enter the code without U+; if it follows other letters or numbers, select only the code before converting.