HTML Decode / Unescape

Decode HTML entities online

HTML decoding converts recognized named and numeric character references into their corresponding characters. For example, <strong> becomes <strong>, and 中文 becomes 中文.

The output is plain text containing the decoded characters. If that output is later inserted as HTML markup, tags and other syntax may become active, so treat content from untrusted sources carefully.

How to unescape HTML

1. Paste text containing HTML character references.
2. Click Decode.
3. Copy the resulting characters or markup.
4. If the result will be rendered as HTML, sanitize or safely handle it according to the destination context.

The HTML Standard defines named references such as &, decimal numeric references such as &, and hexadecimal references such as &.

Decoding and browser security

Decoding does not determine whether the resulting HTML is safe. An encoded tag can become a real tag after decoding, and encoded attributes or URLs can regain their original meaning.

Use text insertion APIs when content should remain text. Applications that intentionally allow user-supplied markup need a maintained HTML sanitizer and an explicit content policy rather than entity decoding alone.

HTML decode FAQ

Why does an entity remain unchanged?

It may be misspelled, unsupported, missing required syntax, or intended for XML rather than HTML. Check its exact name, capitalization, number, and semicolon.

Are numeric HTML entities supported?

Yes. Decimal and hexadecimal numeric character references can represent Unicode code points allowed by HTML.

How do I display decoded markup as text again?

Use HTML Encode / Escape. If the value belongs in a URL rather than HTML markup, use the appropriate URL encoder instead.