What does the “M” shape of the McDonald’s logo represent?

The “M” shape of the McDonald’s logo represents two golden arches.

The arches originated as large architectural elements on McDonald’s restaurant buildings. The company later combined the separate arches into a single stylized emblem that resembles the letter M, creating a compact mark suitable for signs, packaging, and advertising.

The symbol therefore has a literal architectural origin rather than being designed simply as an abstract letter. Its shape connects the corporate logo with the restaurants that first displayed the arches beside their buildings.

The logo is sometimes interpreted as a crown, a bridge, or another decorative form because of its simple silhouette. Those interpretations are not the historical explanation. In McDonald’s branding history, the intended source is the pair of golden arches used in the restaurant design.