keycap: 3
Unicode: 0033 FE0F 20E3
Description
A square keycap displaying the digit '3'. The 'FE0F' is a variation selector that ensures the '3' is displayed as an emoji, and '20E3' is a combining enclosing keycap that puts a box around the previous character.
Group:
Symbols > keycap
Status:
fully-qualified
Emotion:
Typically represents the number '3' in a visual, keycap style. No specific emotional connotation, but its usage context may imply counting, ordering, or specific numbered references.
Backstory
The combining enclosing keycap (U+20E3) was introduced in Unicode 1.1 (1993), allowing any character to be put inside a keycap. The specific use with digits like '3' became prominent with wider emoji adoption, particularly in texting and messaging apps, where numbered keycaps are part of a broader set of utility emojis. The FE0F (variation selector-16) ensures it renders as an emoji presentation rather than text.
Usage Examples
- Marking the third item in a list: 'Please remember: 1️⃣ buy milk, 2️⃣ walk the dog, 3️⃣ pay bills.'
- Referring to the third option or choice: 'Select option 3️⃣ for more details.'
- Counting down or indicating a numerical sequence: 'Only 3️⃣ days left until the event!'
- On social media for sequential posts or chapters: 'Part 3️⃣ of my travel vlog is now live!'
Cultural Differences
Western culture:
Used as a numerical indicator, often seen in lists, sequences, or sports scores. No particular cultural nuance beyond its numerical value.
East Asian culture:
Similar to Western culture, used as a numerical indicator. Might be used in contexts related to dates, times, or quantities, sometimes in relation to popular culture content (e.g., K-pop album track numbers).