v2.0

Hourglass Not Done EmojiUnicode: 23F3

Symbolizes waiting and incomplete tasks.

Released in The ⏳ emoji was introduced in Unicode 6.0 in 2010 and is widely used across platforms to indicate ongoing processes.

hourglasswaitingtimernot donependingdelaytimepatienceunfinishedloading

Meaning and Interpretation

The ⏳ emoji, known as 'hourglass not done,' depicts an hourglass with sand still flowing from the top chamber, signifying that time is passing and a task or process is not yet complete. It is commonly used to express anticipation, delays, or the need for patience in various contexts. This emoji conveys a sense of temporality, reminding users that something is in progress but requires more time to finish. Originating from the traditional hourglass device used for measuring time, it has evolved in digital communication to represent modern concepts like loading screens, queues, or ongoing events.

Symbolism

  • Patience and waiting, as it visually shows time passing without completion.
  • Time management and deadlines, reminding users of impending limits.
  • Progress and anticipation, indicating that an action is underway but not finished.

Common Usage Scenarios

  • In casual conversations to indicate waiting for a response or event, such as in messaging apps.
  • On social media to show ongoing processes like uploads or downloads.
  • In professional contexts, such as emails or project updates, to highlight delays or pending tasks.

Usage Examples in Conversation

Hey, I'm stuck in traffic right now ⏳, be there in 10 minutes!
The website is loading slowly ⏳, let's try refreshing it.
Just submitted my application ⏳, now the waiting game begins.
Baking cookies takes forever ⏳, but they'll be worth it.
Waiting for the concert tickets to go on sale ⏳, fingers crossed!

Usage Guidelines and Etiquette

  • Use it sparingly to avoid overwhelming conversations and maintain clarity.
  • Pair it with context for better understanding, like explaining what you're waiting for.
  • Avoid using in urgent situations where immediacy is needed, as it might downplay seriousness.

Related Emojis

Hourglass Done

Represents completed time or tasks, contrasting with ongoing waiting.

Alarm Clock

Indicates time-specific events or reminders, often used for deadlines.

🕒

Three O’Clock

Symbolizes specific times, relating to scheduling and timing.

⏱️

Stopwatch

Used for timing activities or races, emphasizing precision.

🕰️

Mantelpiece Clock

Evokes nostalgia for timekeeping, often in daily routines.

📅

Calendar

Represents dates and planning, connecting to time management.

⏲️

Timer Clock

Shows countdowns, similar to waiting for something to end.

🕔

Eight O’Clock

Indicates evening times, linking to daily schedules.

🕛

Twelve O’Clock

Marks midday or midnight, symbolizing key time points.

Hourglass Not Done

Itself, as a primary reference for waiting and incomplete processes.