flat shoe
Unicode: 1F97F
Description
A yellow-faced emoji with a mask covering the mouth and nose.
Group:
Objects > clothing
Status:
fully-qualified
Emotion:
Typically represents sickness, being unwell, protection from germs, or a desire for privacy/anonymity. Can also be used to express concern for health.
Backstory
This emoji was introduced in Unicode 8.0 (2015). While originally conceived to represent illness or general health concerns, its prominence skyrocketed globally during the COVID-19 pandemic as a direct symbol for mask-wearing and public health measures.
Usage Examples
- Feeling unwell: 'I'm not feeling so great today 😷'
- Wearing a mask for protection: 'Remember to wear your mask! 😷'
- Protecting others from germs: 'Stay home if you're sick 😷'
- Dealing with allergies: 'My allergies are really bad today 😷'
Cultural Differences
Western culture:
Often related to illness, allergies, or a desire for anonymity. Usage increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic to represent mask-wearing.
East Asian culture:
Commonly used in everyday life, especially in Japan, to prevent spreading germs when sick, or to protect from pollen/pollution. Also used to express shyness or a desire to avoid interaction.