What Is L in Morse Code?
The Morse code for L is .-.., a sequence of 3 dots and 1 dash. In international Morse code (the ITU standard), each letter has a unique combination of dots (·) and dashes (−). L has the dash in the second position.
When you hear or read “morse code l”, “morse code for l”, “l morse code”, or “letter l in morse code”, the answer is always the same 4-signal pattern: .-...
NATO Phonetic Word for L
In the NATO phonetic alphabet, the letter L is spoken as Lima. This pairing — Morse code .-.. with the spoken word Lima — is used by aviation, military, and amateur radio operators worldwide for unmistakable communication.
Practice: What Is the Morse Code for L?
Select the correct Morse code for L:
How to Tap Letter L in Morse Code
To transmit Letter L (.-..), use this sequence:
ITU Timing Rules
- Dot (·) = 1 unit
- Dash (−) = 3 units (3× longer)
- Signal gap = 1 unit
- Letter gap = 3 units
- Word gap = 7 units
Timing Reference Table
| Speed | Dot | Dash | Letter gap | Word gap |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 wpm | 240ms | 720ms | 720ms | 1680ms |
| 10 wpm | 120ms | 360ms | 360ms | 840ms |
| 17 wpm (this page) | 70ms | 210ms | 210ms | 490ms |
| 20 wpm | 60ms | 180ms | 180ms | 420ms |
How to Remember Letter L in Morse Code
L for "to-LOOK-a-like" — di-DAH-di-dit.
NATO phonetic word: Lima — pair the spoken word with the rhythm to remember faster.
Frequently Asked Questions — Letter L in Morse Code
L in Morse code is .-... The letter L uses 3 dots and 1 dash, the standard ITU pattern.
The Morse code for L is .-... Tap the 4 signals in sequence with a one-unit gap between each.
To send letter L: short press, then long press, then short press, then short press. The NATO phonetic name for L is Lima.
.-.. means the letter L in international Morse code (the ITU standard used worldwide for amateur radio and communication).
The NATO phonetic alphabet word for L is Lima. It pairs with the Morse code .-.. for clear voice and signal communication.
Related Morse Code Letters
Other letters often learned alongside L: