# How to redefine the “plus” symbol?

Let's say I don't like the way the + symbol is printed inside equation: is there a way to change its appearance without defining a new command?

More generally, is it possible to create a command without the initial backslash?

• Welcome to TeX.SE. Please be a bit more specific regarding your dislike for the way the + symbol is printed in math mode. Is it its size, shape, height above the baseline, spacing relative to adjoining symbols, or something else entirely? Separately, which (math) font do you use? – Mico Nov 24 '15 at 16:36
• – Chris Chudzicki Nov 24 '15 at 16:39
• I asked a new question on how to redefine multiple symbols. e.g. minus, plus and plusminus: tex.stackexchange.com/questions/361807/… – lblb Apr 2 '17 at 20:28

Yes, of course.

\documentclass{article}

\begingroup
\catcode+=\active
\gdef+{\mathbin{\mathrm{blurb}}}
\endgroup
\AtBeginDocument{\mathcode+="8000 }

\begin{document}
$x+y$
\end{document}


Of course you can think to better definition for the “math active” +. ;-)

• I understand the making + active part. But can you elaborate on what the \mathcode does and why it must occur \AtBeginDocument? – Steven B. Segletes Nov 24 '15 at 16:55