Arrow is a universal graphical symbol used for mainly indicating direction. The first usage of this typographical symbol occurred in the 18th century. This symbol is largely used in mathematical notation, road surface markings, as well as on signage, advertising billboards, weather maps, and wayfinding. Upwards pointing arrows show an increase in a numerical value, and downwards pointing arrows show a decrease. The usage of the arrow symbol representing logical implication in math originates in 1922 and introduced by David Hilbert. The usage of the double-headed arrow occurred in 1933 and introduced by Albrecht Becker.

Today we can see arrow symbols everywhere! They are very simple and universally used to show where things are. In company logos such as Subway, Volvo, Amazon, and FedEx, the arrow symbol depicts a specific meaning about the product or service. Arrow tattoos are also very popular. The symbol has a lot of different meanings. For example, the sign of two crossed arrows represents an alliance and it is preferred as a friendship tattoo. An arrow piercing through the heart symbolizes romantic desire. You can see an arrow icon on your phone too. An arrow icon at the top of your screen means that your phone is currently using location services. The arrow is also very meaningful in several cultures. Arrows symbolize both war and peace in Native American culture. For example, two arrows in different directions mean war, as well as a broken arrow symbolizes peace. Crossed arrows mean friendship, and a single arrow indicates the direction of travel or movement. But its placement can change its meaning. A single arrow pointing left means warding off evil, a single arrow pointing right means protection. The arrow symbol is very important in other cultures too. Arrows were used to indicate war in Roman mythology. And in Hindu mythology, Rudra, a Rigvedic deity, associated with wind or storm, is armed with arrows. Rudra is also called “the archer” which means a person who shoots with a bow and arrows.

If you want to make an arrow symbol on your computer, you can use the "Insert Symbol" option. Using this option, you can select a Unicode symbol. Or you can press Command+Control+Spacebar on Mac to bring up the Character Viewer. Then you can use the search field at the top of the window to find the Arrow symbol.