What is HTML?
HTML decoding converts HTML entities — such as <, >, & and " — back into the characters they represent (<, >, &, "). It is the reverse of HTML encoding and is useful for reading or extracting text that was stored or transmitted as HTML-escaped content. This tool decodes HTML entities instantly in your browser.
Runs locally: HTML decoding happens in your browser; nothing is uploaded.
How HTML works
Decoding replaces each entity with its character:
- Named entities like
<,>and&become<,>and&. - Numeric entities like
<(decimal) and<(hex) become the matching character. - The result is plain text with the original characters restored.
How to use
- Paste your HTML-encoded text into the input box.
- The decoded result appears instantly.
- Click Copy to use the decoded text.
Examples
| Input | Decoded |
|---|---|
<b>bold</b> | <b>bold</b> |
Tom & Jerry | Tom & Jerry |
5 < 10 | 5 < 10 |
say "hi" | say "hi" |
Options explained
- Named, decimal & hex entities — Decodes &name;, &#NN; and &#xHH; forms.
Common uses
- Reading content that was stored HTML-escaped.
- Extracting plain text from HTML or feeds.
- Debugging encoded output from templates or APIs.
Frequently asked questions
What does HTML decoding do?
It turns HTML entities back into normal characters.
What is &#39;?
The numeric HTML entity for an apostrophe (').
How do I encode instead?
Use the HTML Encode tool.