Lambda Symbol
About Lambda Symbol
Λ is the Lambda Symbol, the eleventh letter of the Greek alphabet in its uppercase form. Λ denotes the cosmological constant, eigenvalues in linear algebra, and is the symbol of lambda calculus and functional programming.
【Pronunciation】 In English, Λ is most often pronounced LAM-duh (IPA: /ˈlæmbdə/). This is simply the anglicized name of the Greek letter.
The uppercase Lambda Symbol Λ is written as a distinct capital Greek glyph and is assigned codepoint U+039B in the Greek and Coptic Unicode block. Its uppercase form is unmistakably Greek and clearly distinct from any Latin letter.
【Historical Origin】 Like every Greek letter, Λ was adapted from a Phoenician consonant and entered mathematical and scientific notation through the work of ancient Greek scholars, remaining in continuous use to the present day.
【Common Uses】 Λ is highly active across disciplines and frequently appears alongside other Greek capitals such as Δ (Δ), Σ (Σ), Π (Π) and Ω (Ω) in formulas, papers, and engineering drawings. Its clear shape and long tradition make it a standard symbol in many fields.
How to Type Lambda Symbol
Windows Input
Method 1: Hold Alt and type 923 on the numeric keypad, then release Alt to get Λ.
Mac Input
Method 2: Press Control + Command + Space to open the Character Viewer, search for "greek" or "Lambda Symbol", then select Λ.
HTML/CSS Input
HTML: Λ or Λ; CSS: content: "\039B";
LaTeX Input
Use the \Lambda command in LaTeX math mode to produce Λ.
Lambda Symbol FAQ
How is Λ pronounced?
The English pronunciation of Λ is LAM-duh (IPA: /ˈlæmbdə/). It is the anglicized name of the Greek letter, used directly rather than described as "uppercase Λ".
What is the difference between Λ and the Latin letter L?
Λ (U+039B) is a distinct Greek capital with its own codepoint and shape, unrelated to any Latin letter; it is never confused with a Roman character.
How do I type Λ in Word, web pages, and LaTeX?
On Windows use Alt+923 on the numeric keypad; on Mac open the Character Viewer and search "greek" or "Lambda Symbol"; on the web use the HTML entity Λ; in LaTeX use \Lambda.