The Shrug Kaomoji ¯\_(ツ)_/¯—also known as the “Smug Shrug” or “Shruggie”—is one of the most popular text-based emoticons in internet history. It represents a universal gesture of indifference, confusion, or a lack of knowledge.
Unlike standard yellow emojis (🤷), the text version carries a specific tone of sarcastic nonchalance that fits perfectly in Reddit threads, Discord chats, and coding forums. While the Shrug is arguably the most famous text face, it is just one part of our massive Kaomoji Picker collection containing thousands of Japanese emoticons.
Quick Kaomoji Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
| Kaomoji | ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ |
| Name | Shrug / Shruggie |
| Japanese Name | Kata wo sukumeru (肩をすくめる) |
| Meaning | “I don’t know,” “Whatever,” “Who cares?” |
| Key Character | Uses the Japanese Katakana ツ (tsu) for the smile |
| Category | Actions / Smug / Confusion |
What does ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ mean?
The Shrug Kaomoji conveys a range of passive-aggressive or neutral emotions depending on the context:
- “I have no idea”: Used when someone asks a question you cannot answer.
- “Whatever”: Used to dismiss a heated argument or a troll.
- “It is what it is”: Used when something goes wrong, but you accept your fate.
- “Victory”: In gaming (specifically StarCraft), it was historically used to taunt opponents after a win, implying “It was too easy.”
How to Type the Shrug Kaomoji?
Typing this character manually is difficult because it uses symbols from different languages (Katakana for the face, math symbols for the arms).
Option 1: Copy and Paste
The easiest method is to use the button on this page (or the sidebar) to copy it instantly.
Option 2: iOS Text Replacement (iPhone/iPad)
If you text often, set up a shortcut:
- Go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Text Replacement.
- Tap the + sign.
- Phrase: Paste ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
- Shortcut: Type &shrug
- Now, whenever you type &shrug, it will auto-expand to the emoticon.
Option 3: Windows & Mac Shortcuts
- Mac: You can add it to System Settings > Keyboard > Text Replacements (similar to iOS).
- Windows: Use the Windows Key + . (period) to open the Emoji panel, then select the ;-; (Kaomoji) tab to find it.
The History of the Shrug
The exact origin of the Shrug is debated, but it rose to massive popularity in the Western internet around 2010.
It gained legendary status in the StarCraft II community. The pro player SeleCT would often type the character /¯(◡‿◡)¯\ (a variation called “Sup Son”) after making a good play. The standard ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ evolved from this culture of “mannered” taunting.
It famously appeared in pop culture when Kanye West interrupted Taylor Swift at the 2009 VMAs. Internet users spammed the shrug to represent Kanye’s unapologetic attitude, cementing the emoticon as the symbol for “I did it, and I don’t care.”
Popular Variations
If the standard shrug feels too plain, try these variations:
- The “Sup Son” Shrug: ¯\(°_o)/¯
- The Angry Shrug: ¯\_(ಠ_ಠ)_/¯
- The Cute Shrug: ¯\_( সন্দে)_/¯
- The “Why” Shrug: ʅ(́◡上有)ʃ
Explore More Kaomojis
The Shrug is a classic, but sometimes you need to flip a table, cry, or send a bear hug. Don’t limit yourself to just one emoticon. Visit our Kaomoji Picker to search through categorized lists of every text face imaginable, all ready to copy and paste with one click.