Emojis have become a universal language. We use them in our texts, social media posts, and sometimes even in work emails. Whether you use the eggplant, the shrug face, or the poop, each emoji probably means something specific to you.
However, depending on oneβs age, cultural background, or personal experiences, they may think of the emoji as meaning something entirely different! Here’s a look at 18 emojis that are often interpreted in surprising ways by different people.
1. Thumbs Up (π)
For a younger crowd, the thumbs up is a casual acknowledgment of something that was said. Older people think of the thumbs up as a verification or a strong agreement to do something, especially in the workplace.
2. Red Heart (β€οΈ)
There are many different heart emojis, but the red heart is often the one used to mean that you love something. Younger people use this emoji casually without any real meaning behind it. Anyone older is using the red heart as a strong romantic expression.
3. Eggplant (π)
To the older crowd, an eggplant is simply a vegetable. One that tastes delicious in pasta! Gen Z’ers and Millennials think of the eggplant as a sexual innuendo.
4. Peach (π)
Weirdly enough, many emojis have sexual undertones. The peach is often used as a companion to the eggplant. Other people who aren’t in the loop may see the peach as merely a juicy fruit.
5. Clapping Hands (π)
It’s impossible to get a tone out of text, but if you’re under the age of 17, you may see the clapping hands emoji as a sarcastic way to mock someone. Everyone else uses this emoji to express genuine applause or appreciation.
6. Skull (π)
Depending on the situation, it can be really easy to misinterpret emojis when they’re being used. For instance, the skull means something is really funny to certain people. Other people are using the skull to represent danger or death.
7. Fire (π₯)
Did you get a text with the fire emoji? Don’t jump to immediate conclusions about what it could mean! Some people think of this emoji as a way to communicate that something is attractive, or as the younger kids say, “lit.” Of course, the emoji could also be used to represent an actual fire or a danger ahead.
8. Face with Tears of Joy (π)
When Gen Z or Gen Alpha uses this emoji, they’re using it ironically or to poke fun at the older crowd. Adults use this emoji as a straightforward expression of laughter.
9. Smirking Face (π)
The smirking face is one of the most confusing emojis. Sometimes, it’s used by someone who is trying to be flirty or suggestive. At other times, the emoji is shared to indicate smugness or self-satisfaction.
10. Snake (π)
Do you remember Harry Potter? In the books and movies, the Slytherins were represented by the snake since the animal is associated with sneakiness or betrayal. Some people use this emoji to mean the same thing, while others are referring to the animal with no other meaning.
11. Cowboy Hat Face (π€ )
Yeehaw! If you see the cowboy hat face in a text or social media post, the person could be trying to evoke a sense of silliness or goofy fun. Keep in mind that’s not always the case! The cowboy hat emoji could also be referring to the Wild West or cowboys.
12. Pile of Poo (π©)
One of the most popular emojis is the poop emoji since it can mean a lot of things. This stinky guy can be used humorously or to indicate a mess. Be careful because some people think of the emoji as crude and inappropriate.
13. Raised Fist (β)
The raised fist is a symbol of solidarity and support for social movements. However, it can also be a sign of aggression or an uprising.
14. Purple Heart (π)
Few people realize that the heart emojis could have different meanings. Purple hearts are used to represent mental health awareness, platonic love, or the military, depending on the context of the message.
15. Face Screaming in Fear (π±)
When someone uses this emoji, they’re usually communicating that they’re feeling overwhelmed, shocked, or full of fear. However, it’s not always cut and dry. Sometimes this emoji also represents a hyperbolic reaction to a situation.
16. Loudly Crying Face (π)
People can use emojis sarcastically or genuinely depending on the situation. If you get the loudly crying face emoji, you could be getting an over-the-top reaction to a minor inconvenience. On the other hand, you could also be receiving the message that someone feels deep sadness or despair.
17. Winking Face (π)
Equally playful and flirty, the winking face is one of the most misunderstood emojis of all time. When you get this emoji from your crush, you may think they’re secretly telling you that they’re into you. In reality, they may just be joking around.
18. Prayer Hands (π)
The prayer hands emoji can have many different meanings. It could mean “please” or “thank you.” It could also be used religiously. Most often, the prayer hands are symbolic of deep gratitude to someone.
Embracing Emojis
As emojis continue to evolve and embed themselves into our culture, there may be even more shifts in what they mean. Try your best not to overanalyze an emoji in a text or on a social media post. When in doubt, you can simply ask the person what they’re trying to say!
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Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.