What is M in Morse code?

M is two dashes (−−) with a one-dot pause between them. It sounds like two slow, even beats, and it is the first step toward O, which adds a third dash.

How do I tell M from T and O?

Count the dahs: T has one, M two, O three. At higher speeds the count blurs, so learn to hear M as a pair and O as a longer, rolling triple.

Why is M one of the first letters taught?

Many Koch-method courses pair M with K in lesson one. M is all dashes while K mixes dashes with a dot, so even a new ear can tell them apart at full speed.

The Letter M in Morse Code

M is −−: no short di and 2 long dahs, dah-dah. It lasts 7 units.

−−dah-dah

M drawn to time: 7 units, then a 3-unit gap before the next letter.

SpeedSlow · 8 WPMNormal · 18 WPMFast · 25 WPM

Facts about M

Code: −− · dah-dah
Elements: 2 — no dot, 2 dashes
Length: 7 units + 3 before the next letter
Time: 0.42 s at 20 WPM · 1.05 s at 8 WPM
Tree: T → M · below it: G, O
Frequency: 2.51% of English letters, 14th of 26²
Koch order: 2nd sign of the course
Spelling: Mike
Same signal: М in Russian Morse · Μ in Greek Morse · ヨ in Wabun

§ 1Don’t confuse M with

Mthis letterdah-dah
Tone element shorterdah
Afirst element differsdi-dah
Nlast element differsdah-dit
Wone element longerdi-dah-dah
Kone element longerdah-di-dah
Gone element longerdah-dah-dit
Oone element longerdah-dah-dah
Imirror: every di and dah swappeddi-dit

Blue marks the elements that differ from M.

§ 2How to remember M

MORE MILK (−−) — M mirrors I (··): two dahs held long against two quick dits.

§ 3Words with M

§ 4Questions about M

What is M in Morse code?: M is two dashes (−−) with a one-dot pause between them. It sounds like two slow, even beats, and it is the first step toward O, which adds a third dash.
How do I tell M from T and O?: Count the dahs: T has one, M two, O three. At higher speeds the count blurs, so learn to hear M as a pair and O as a longer, rolling triple.
Why is M one of the first letters taught?: Many Koch-method courses pair M with K in lesson one. M is all dashes while K mixes dashes with a dot, so even a new ear can tell them apart at full speed.