K in Morse Code — −·−
What is K in Morse Code?
The letter K in Morse code is dash-dot-dash (− · −). In amateur radio, K by itself means "go ahead" or "invitation to transmit" — making it one of the most important operational signals.
In International Morse Code, the letter K is encoded as −·− — consisting of 1 dot and 2 dashes. The total transmission length is 9 time units. In the NATO phonetic alphabet, K is represented by the word "Kilo" to avoid miscommunication over radio.
How to Transmit K in Morse Code
To transmit the letter K (−·−) in Morse code, follow these steps:
- Send a long signal (dash) — 3 time units then pause for 1 unit
- Send a short signal (dot) — 1 time unit then pause for 1 unit
- Send a long signal (dash) — 3 time units
At 20 WPM (words per minute), one time unit equals 60 milliseconds. So the letter K takes approximately 540ms to transmit at this speed.
Visual Signal Pattern
Mnemonic: How to Remember K in Morse Code
K surrounds a dot with two dashes — like a "KicK" with strong emphasis on both ends and a light middle. Dah-di-dah.
Example Words with K in Morse Code
Here are common words containing the letter K, with their complete Morse code breakdown:
Interesting Fact About K in Morse Code
K (− · −) is used as a prosign in amateur radio meaning "over" or "go ahead, transmit." When you hear − · − at the end of a transmission, it means the operator is inviting you to respond.
Letter K Frequency in English
The letter K appears in approximately 0.77% of English text, making it the #22 most common letter out of 26.
K is relatively rare in English text. Despite its lower frequency, knowing its Morse code is important for complete alphabet mastery and for decoding words that contain it.
Common English Words Starting with K
Practice encoding these common words that begin with the letter K:
Letters Similar to K in Morse Code
These letters have Morse code patterns related to K — knowing them helps avoid confusion:
Complete Guide to K (−·−) in Morse Code
The Morse code representation for the letter K is −·−, which is vocalized as "dah-di-dah". This encoding is part of the International Morse Code standard adopted in 1865 and still in use worldwide today.
When transmitting K by sound, the dot should be short, crisp signal and the dashes should last exactly three times the duration of a dot. Proper timing between elements (1 unit of silence) is crucial for the receiver to correctly decode the letter.
In practical use, the letter K can be transmitted using various methods: a telegraph key, a radio transmitter, a flashlight (short flash = dot, long flash = dash), a whistle, or even by tapping. The medium doesn't matter — only the relative timing between short and long signals.
For amateur radio operators using CW (Continuous Wave) mode, the letter K is one of the less common characters, but still essential for complete message transmission and proper spelling.
Frequently Asked Questions About K in Morse Code
What is the letter K in Morse code?
The letter K in Morse code is − · − (dash dot dash), pronounced "dah-di-dah". It has a long signal, a short signal, then another long signal.
What does K mean in amateur radio?
In amateur radio, K (− · −) sent alone is a prosign meaning "go ahead" or "invitation to transmit." It tells the other station you are done and ready to listen.
How do you remember K in Morse code?
Think "KicK" — strong on both ends with a quick middle. The dah-di-dah pattern mirrors this emphasis pattern perfectly.
What is the NATO phonetic for the letter K?
The NATO phonetic alphabet word for K is "Kilo". It is used in international communications to clearly identify the letter K.
Translate K and More
Use our free Morse code translator to convert the letter K, full words, and sentences to Morse code instantly.