The abbreviation "SOS" stands for "Save Our Souls" or "Save Our Ship." It is a distress signal used internationally in maritime communication to request help or assistance in emergency situations. The term has been widely adopted as a distress call due to its simplicity and easy recognition in Morse code. It is used to indicate that a person, group, or vessel is in immediate danger and requires immediate assistance. SOS is recognized as a universal distress signal and is used not only in maritime contexts but also in various emergency situations worldwide.