❓ What it means
The 👀 emoji is all about attention and observation. Its most common use is to encourage someone to “look at this.”
It features two wide-open, cartoonish eyes, with a white sclera, a blue iris, and a black pupil.
However, its meaning can change dramatically.
It can be used to silently signal disbelief, to show you’re skeptical of a situation, or to indicate that you’re watching a conversation unfold with great interest.
The emoji is a master of subtext and is often used to share a “look” with someone without words.
🎯 When to use it
- To get someone’s attention to a message, photo, or link:
"You have to see this. 👀" - To express suspicion or disbelief:
"That story sounds a little off. 👀" - To signify that you are watching or observing a situation unfold, often with a sense of judgment:
“Did you see what she just posted? 👀” - To introduce a “hot take” or piece of gossip:
"I have some tea to spill. 👀"
🔗 Related Emojis
- 🤔 Thinking Face: For a sense of skepticism or deep thought.
- 🤫 Shushing Face: Used in a conspiratorial sense when sharing something secretive.
- 🍿 Popcorn: To signify that you’re “popping popcorn” to watch drama unfold.
- 🕵️ Detective: A more literal symbol for investigating or trying to figure something out.
🤓 Fun Fact
The eyes emoji is a key component in what linguists call “emoji phrases.”
For example, the combination of 👀➡️👄➡️👀 (eyes, then mouth, then eyes) can be a humorous way to say “my eyes are up here” in a playful context, showcasing how emojis can be combined to form more complex meanings.