keycap: 9
Unicode: 0039 20E3
Description
The number nine (9) character combined with the 'combining enclosing keycap' accent, typically rendering as the digit '9' enclosed within a square or keycap.
Group:
Symbols > keycap
Status:
unqualified
Emotion:
Neutral; conveys information or a specific number designation rather than an emotion.
Backstory
The 'combining enclosing keycap' (U+20E3) was introduced in Unicode 1.1 (1993). When combined with single digits (0-9), it creates the popular 'keycap' appearance often seen in user interfaces to represent numerical choices or buttons. The digit '9' (U+0039) itself is a foundational character in many writing systems across the world.
Usage Examples
- Indicating a choice: 'Press 9 to continue.'
- Listing an item: '9. Final step.'
- Numbered button: 'Select option 9.'
- As part of a phone number display: 'Call us at 1-800-555-9999.'
Cultural Differences
Western culture:
Used as a numerical digit, part of lists, phone numbers, or quantitative data. The keycap often signifies a button press or selection.
East Asian culture:
Similar numerical usage. In certain contexts, number nine can be associated with longevity or eternity due to its pronunciation sounding similar to 'long-lasting' (久 - jiǔ) in Chinese, but this is less common with the keycap emoji itself.