keycap:
Unicode: 0023 FE0F 20E3
Description
#⃣ is a Unicode sequence representing the '#' symbol combined with the combining enclosing keycap and a variation selector. This renders as a '#' inside a square or keycap.
Group:
Symbols > keycap
Status:
fully-qualified
Emotion:
Neutral. It's a functional character marker rather than an emotional expression.
Backstory
The '#' symbol (U+0023) has a long history as a number sign or pound sign. The variation selector (U+FE0F) ensures it is displayed as an emoji (in some contexts, though less common for this character). The combining enclosing keycap (U+20E3) was introduced in Unicode 4.0 (2003) to create the uniform appearance of numbers and symbols within a keycap, often seen on phone keypads or lists.
Usage Examples
- As part of a numbered list: '#⃣1. First Item'
- Indicating a numeric input: 'Press #⃣ to continue'
- In gaming interfaces: 'Player #⃣ (often rendered as a text display)'
Cultural Differences
General:
Used universally as a numeric indicator, placeholder, or part of a sequence (e.g., #1). Its enclosed keycap form adds visual emphasis but doesn't change its meaning.