How to Type the OE Symbol (œ/Œ) on Keyboard (Windows, Mac, Word, Docs)

The OE symbol is written as œ (lowercase) or Œ (uppercase). It’s also called the OE ligature.

You’ll see it in:

• French words and names (common)
• Older/“classic” spellings in English (less common)
• Some names, academic writing, and borrowed words

Quick note: you can type oe as normal letters, but œ/Œ is the correct character when it’s required.

1-Minute Answer (fastest ways)

• Windows (Alt code):
  • œ → Hold Alt and type 0156 on the numeric keypad
  • Œ → Hold Alt and type 0140 on the numeric keypad
    (This needs a real numpad. The number row above letters usually won’t work.)
• Mac (keyboard shortcut):
  • œ → Option + Q
  • Œ → Option + Shift + Q
• Word (fast method):
  Type 0153 then press Alt + X → œ
  Type 0152 then press Alt + X → Œ
• iPhone / Android:
  Press and hold O (or o) and look for œ. If you don’t see it, use copy/paste or add a French keyboard.
• Google Docs:
  Insert → Special characters, then search oe, oelig, or ligature.
• Copy and paste this symbol using the copy tool below: