cat with tears of joy
Unicode: 1F639
Description
A cartoon cat face with a large, open mouth, displaying a broad, mischievous grin or a 'smug' expression, often showing its teeth.
Group:
Smileys & Emotion > cat-face
Status:
fully-qualified
Emotion:
Typically represents smugness, self-satisfaction, mischief, or a sly grin. Can also convey a sense of being pleased with oneself or a bit naughty.
Backstory
This emoji was introduced in Unicode 6.0 (2010). It's one of several cat-themed emojis, designed to convey specific human emotions through an animal's face. Its expression is commonly associated with a 'cheshire cat' type of grin, implying a hidden agenda or satisfied mischief.
Usage Examples
- Knowing a secret: 'I know who ate the last cookie... 😼'
- Feeling smug: 'I told you I could do it! 😼'
- Teasing someone: 'Looks like someone's in trouble 😼'
- Playful mischief: 'Just pulled a prank on my brother 😼'
Cultural Differences
Western culture:
Often used for 'cat got your tongue' situations, knowing a secret, or a cheeky smile.
East Asian culture:
Similar usage, sometimes also used playfully to express satisfaction after a small 'win' or a trick played.
General:
The cat's expression is universally understood as a smirk or a knowing grin.