pregnant man: dark skin tone
Unicode: 1FAC3 1F3FF
Description
An emoji representing an empty nest, typically depicted as a bowl-shaped structure made of twigs, without any birds or eggs inside.
Group:
People & Body > person-role
Status:
fully-qualified
Emotion:
Often evokes feelings of emptiness, loneliness, transition, independence (for the 'offspring'), or a new phase of life (for the 'parents'). It can also represent a fresh start or anticipation.
Backstory
This emoji was approved as part of Unicode 15.0 in 2022 and added to Emoji 15.0. Its introduction reflects a growing need for emojis that represent life stages and more nuanced emotional states beyond simple objects or actions.
Usage Examples
- Parents whose children have left home: 'The house feels so quiet now... C'
- Referring to a new stage of life or independence: 'Excited for this next chapter, it's an empty nest waiting for new possibilities! C'
- Indicating a space is now available or vacated: 'The old office is an empty nest now, time to redecorate! C'
- Figuratively, for a sense of quiet after a busy period: 'Finally, an empty nest at home after all the holiday guests. C'
Cultural Differences
Western culture:
Strongly associated with the 'empty nest syndrome' when children leave home, symbolizing parents' feelings of loss, but also new freedom. Can also represent a space waiting to be filled or new beginnings.
East Asian culture:
May also be understood in the context of children leaving home. Less commonly used in specific idioms compared to Western cultures, but the visual symbolism of emptiness and transition is generally understood.