What Does the 😱 Emoji Mean?

Feeling shocked, excited or frightened by something you've just seen or heard? If so, we have the perfect emoji for you: 😱.

The Origins of 😱

The "face screaming in fear" emoji has a bit more meaning to it than you might think, especially considering that it is inspired by a classic masterpiece of a painting, Edvard Munch's The Scream.

(via Wikimedia Commons)

 

What 😱 Means

But what does it actually mean when used in a text? Well, it could be any of the following:

• Shock
• Disbelief
• Awe
• Screaming
• Horror
• Surprise

 

Also Read About: What Does the 🤔 Emoji Mean?

 

How to Use 😱

😱 is also one of those rare emojis that can be used either negatively or positively—and definitely can go beyond its original, fearful definition. On the one hand, you could be "shocked" at how well you did on an exam or "horrified" at how your friends' crush ignored them in the halls. The more creative you can get with it, the more fun you'll have.

 

Also read about: What Does the 😬 Emoji Mean?

 

😱 From a Crush

Likewise, if your crush sends you the 😱, you'll need to look to the surrounding content to be sure what they're trying to tell you. Whether they're a guy or a girl, they might use this screaming emoji when they're delighted by something to the point of shock—or they might use it to share the worst news in the world.

 

Ready to learn about another popular emoji? Click HERE to read all about the meaning of 💋.