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Unicode: 2196
Description
A classic representation of a red heart, often depicted simply, sometimes with a slight gloss or shadow effect.
Group:
Symbols > arrow
Status:
unqualified
Emotion:
Commonly represents love, affection, friendship, romance, and sometimes health or life itself. Its meaning can vary depending on context and accompanying emojis.
Backstory
The heart symbol itself has ancient origins, appearing in art and literature for centuries as a symbol of life and love. Its digital representation, particularly the red heart emoji, became one of the earliest and most fundamental emojis, introduced with Unicode 6.0 (2010), representing the most direct and unadorned expression of love.
Usage Examples
- Expressing romantic love: 'I love you! ❤️'
- Showing appreciation: 'Thank you for your help ❤️'
- Liking a photo/post: 'Beautiful picture ❤️'
- Sending well wishes: 'Thinking of you ❤️'
Cultural Differences
Western culture:
Universally understood as a symbol of love, romance, and affection. Frequently used to express liking for things or people.
East Asian culture:
While expressing love, it can also be used more broadly for 'liking' something, similar to a 'thumbs up', but with a stronger connotation of warmth or appreciation. Paired with other emojis, its meaning can be nuanced (e.g., ❤️🩹 for mending a broken heart).