View synonyms for SOS

SOS

the letters represented by the radio telegraphic signal (· · · – – – · · ·) used, especially by ships in distress, as an internationally recognized call for help.

noun

any call for help:
We sent out an SOS for more typists.

verb (used without object)

to send an SOS.

SOS

abbreviation for

, Slang.

shit on a shingle (a euphemistic initialism used to avoid explicit vulgarity).

s.o.s.

abbreviation for

(in prescriptions) if necessary.

SOS

noun

an internationally recognized distress signal in which the letters SOS are repeatedly spelt out, as by radio-telegraphy: used esp by ships and aircraft
a message broadcast in an emergency for people otherwise unobtainable
informal.
a call for help

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Word History and Origins

Origin of SOS¹

First recorded in 1905–10; from the Morse code alphabet, in which three dots (or short clicks) represents the letter S and three dashes (or long clicks) represents the letter O

Origin of SOS²

From Latin sī opus sit

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Word History and Origins

Origin of SOS¹

C20: letters chosen as the simplest to transmit and receive in Morse code; by folk etymology taken to be an abbreviation for save our souls

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