v2.0

Raised Hand EmojiUnicode: 270B

A hand raised upward.

Released in The Raised Hand emoji (U+270B) was introduced in Unicode 6.0 in 2010 and has since become a staple in digital platforms for indicating pauses or requests.

raised handhand upstopwaitattentionquestionhigh fivehaltpausesignal

Meaning and Interpretation

The Raised Hand emoji, depicted as a single hand with palm facing forward and fingers extended upward, is commonly used to signify a request for attention, permission to speak, or a need to pause a conversation. It originated from gestures in real-life settings like classrooms or meetings, where raising a hand indicates participation or questioning. In digital communication, it conveys politeness, urgency, or a desire to interject without being rude, making it versatile for both formal and informal contexts.

Symbolism

  • Requesting attention or permission to speak, often in educational or professional settings.
  • Signaling a stop or pause in conversation to prevent misunderstandings.
  • Indicating agreement, volunteering, or a high-five gesture in casual interactions.

Common Usage Scenarios

  • In online classes or video meetings to signal a question or desire to contribute.
  • In casual text chats to politely interrupt or ask someone to wait.
  • In social media posts to draw attention to an important point or poll.

Usage Examples in Conversation

Hey everyone, I have a quick question about the plan ✋, what do you think?
Wait a second before you leave ✋, I forgot to mention something important.
In the meeting today, I raised my hand virtually with ✋ to share my idea.
Stop scrolling for a minute ✋, this meme is hilarious!
If you're free, let's chat ✋, but only if you're not busy right now.

Usage Guidelines and Etiquette

  • Use it sparingly in serious discussions to avoid seeming disruptive or impatient.
  • Pair it with context, like a question, to ensure your intent is clear and not misinterpreted.
  • Avoid overusing it in professional emails, as it may come across as too casual or informal.

Related Emojis

👍

Thumbs Up

Used to show approval or agreement in responses.

👋

Waving Hand

Indicates greeting, farewell, or casual acknowledgment.

🤚

Raised Back of Hand

Signals a high-five or stopping gesture in fun interactions.

🙋

Person Raising Hand

Represents someone volunteering or asking a question enthusiastically.

🛑

Stop Sign

Denotes halting an action or warning, similar to a hand signal.

🖐️

Hand with Fingers Splayed

Shows an open hand for high-fives or emphasizing a point.

👉

Backhand Index Pointing Right

Points to something specific, often used with raised hand for direction.

🙌

Raising Hands

Expresses celebration, praise, or excitement in group settings.

🤝

Handshake

Symbolizes agreement or partnership, relating to interactive gestures.

Raised Fist

Represents solidarity, power, or emphasis in discussions.