If you’ve ever had an emergency, you may have used the acronym “SOS.” However, the history behind this age-old term may not be what you think. Most people think that SOS means “save our ship” or “save our souls.” However, that’s just modern slang. Read on to learn the SOS meaning and how you can use this globally-recognized signal.
What Does SOS Mean?
As mentioned earlier, the letters SOS means “save our ship” or “save our souls.” It is used as a cry for help, especially in an emergency situation. However, some people use it synonymously to “help” even when the danger is not imminent.
So, how does “SOS” come to be? The marine shorthand has come a long way since it was first introduced over 100 years ago. When Samuel Morse first introduced the Morse Code in the 1830s, it was a brilliant way to convey a dire issue.
While at sea, captains or sailors needed a universal way to communicate something went wrong. Particularly as ships traversed international waters, it was necessary to create a non-language-based audio and visual signal everyone could adopt.
Since then, SOS has become a concrete part of contemporary language. In its modern form, as mentioned, you can use SOS to express anything from imminent danger to an uncomfortable conversation—even a bad date. There are both serious and more flip ways to put out a cry for help.
Here are a few examples:
- Everyone in our dorm has COVID, SOS!
- The captain of the RMS Titanic put out an SOS when the ship hit the iceberg.
- SOS, I’m feeling depressed lately and could use some support.
- We’re lost on our hike—SOS! Let’s make our presence known so others can find us.
- SOS, I can’t wait for class to be over, this lecture is so boring.
When to Use SOS?
While most closely associated with sinking ships, SOS is so ingrained in everyday vocabulary that you can use it to communicate, “Help, now!” In fact, your iPhone offers an emergency SOS feature that immediately connects you with authorities and uses your phone’s location to find you.
Some more serious examples include needing immediate medical attention or your car breaking down in a deserted area.
How to Use SOS?
If you are going to use the SOS abbreviation in text messaging or on social media, you simply type out SOS – since almost everybody knows that it is a call for help.
Outside the digital world, the SOS signal is articulated like this: flashing a light like so: three dots, followed by three longer dashes and three more dots.
It’s easy to do with a flashlight, but if you don’t have one handy, use your phone. If that’s not an option, you can light a fire or leave a trail of clothing to guide others to you if lost. No electricity? No problem. You can mimic Morse Code with your hands. You can also tap it with your foot in situations where you can’t speak up.
Other Meanings of SOS
While most associate SOS with help and support, SOS can also stand for signs of suicide; a school-based prevention program from MindWise Innovations offers support to those contemplating suicide. Their work has reduced suicide attempts by 64% and offers scholarships for those in need.
Final Thoughts
What was once the language of the sea (international distress signal, to be more precise) has become the modern cry for help. While the SOS meaning has shifted over time, it’s one term everyone can understand. It’s easy to learn and not hard to do, and with luck, you’ll never have to use it.
