What Does 73 and 88 Mean in Ham Radio?

These two numbers are the most famous QSL sign-off codes in the entire hobby — but what do they actually mean? If you’re new to amateur radio or just monitoring shortwave frequencies, you’ve probably heard operators end their contact with “73” or occasionally “88.”

Topics–
73 meaning in ham radio
88 meaning in ham radio
Ham radio 73 and 88 explained
Best regards, ham radio
love and kisses, amateur radio

Here’s everything you need to know about 73 and 88 in ham radio in plain English.

What Does 73 Mean in Ham Radio?

73 = “Best regards”

Universal friendly goodbye in amateur radio
Used on CW (Morse code), SSB phone, FT8, DMR, repeaters — everywhere
Appropriate for any operator, any age, any gender
Plural form: “73s” = best regards to everyone (common on nets)

Example:
“Thanks for the QSO, John — 73!”
= “Thanks for the contact, best regards!”

What Does 88 Mean in Ham Radio?

88 = “Love and kisses”

Much more affectionate and personal
Traditionally sent to a spouse, girlfriend/boyfriend, or very close friend
Often used by YLs (Young Ladies) and XYLs (wives/ex-Young Ladies)
Common around Valentine’s Day or Christmas nets

Cautionary note: These days, with all the woke culture going on, 88 might not be appropriate. Times are a-changing. Use at your own discretion.

Example:
“See you later, dear, 73 to everyone else and 88 to you!”
= “Best regards to the group, but love and kisses just for you.”

Quick Reference Table – 73 vs 88 in Amateur Radio

Code	Meaning	Morse Code	When to Use It	Frequency of Use
73	Best regards	`−−··· −−−··`	Every contact — standard sign-off	Extremely common
88	Love and kisses	`−−··· −−···`	To spouse, partner, or very close friend	Less common
73s	Best regards (plural)	—	Ending a net or roundtable	Very common
73 & 88	Mixed greeting	—	Husband/wife team on air	Common on HF nets

Where Did 73 and 88 Come From? (Real History)

These are not ham radio inventions. They originated in the 1800s from commercial landline telegraphy:

First appeared in the 1859 Western Union “92 Code.”
Popularized in the Phillips Code (1879)
73 = “Accept my compliments” → later “Best regards”
88 = “Love and kisses”

When amateur radio began in the early 1900s, hams simply adopted the already-famous telegraph shorthand — and never let it go.

Common Myths & Misconceptions

❌ “73 means good luck” → False
❌ “73 means goodbye” → Not exactly — it’s “best regards.”
❌ “88 is only for female operators” → No, anyone can send or receive it