SOS is a Morse code distress signal used internationally, originally established for maritime use. It is a signal sequence of three dits, three dats, and another three dits spelling "S-O-S". The letters "SOS" do not stand for any specific words, but were chosen because they are easy to recognize and transmit. Many people mistakenly believe that "SOS" stands for "Save Our Souls" or "Save Our Ship," but these phrases came later through popular use outside of marine communication. SOS is still recognized as a standard distress signal that may be used with any signaling method. It can also be used in modern-day slang to communicate discomfort or urgency over text.