v2.0

😬😬 Grimacing Face Emoji EmojiUnicode: 1F62C

A face with a wide-toothed grin and raised eyebrows.

Released in Added in Unicode 6.1 (2012) and later included in Emoji 1.0 (2015)

awkwardnervouscringetenseuneasyapprehensiveuncomfortablenervousnessconcernhesitation

Meaning and Interpretation

"The Grimacing Face emoji 😬 is a facial expression that is generally used to convey a sense of nervousness, embarrassment, or tension. It shows a face with tightly clenched teeth and slightly raised eyebrows – the classic 'yikes' look used in uncomfortable, tense, clumsy, or awkward situations. It communicates discomfort, hesitation, or a mishap without needing words, making it perfect for when you're feeling on edge."

Symbolism

Awkwardness and uncertainty
Nervousness or tension
Embarrassment or discomfort

Common Usage Scenarios

When you’ve said something awkward or inappropriately timed.
To react to a message that makes you feel secondhand embarrassment or awkwardness.
To acknowledge a cringe-worthy or embarrassing situation.

Usage Examples in Conversation

Friend: 'I accidentally replied to my boss in the wrong chat.' You: '😬 Oops, awkward!'

When you’ve forgotten someone’s birthday: 'Happy late birthday… sorry I forgot 😬'

When a friend is telling a cringey story: 'Uhh, that sounds rough 😬'

When sending an awkward text that might be misinterpreted: 'I hope that didn’t come across the wrong way 😬'

When someone makes a mistake in public: 'That was embarrassing to watch...😬'

Usage Guidelines and Etiquette

Use the 😬 emoji when you don’t know how to respond to awkward situations.
Be cautious, it might come across as dismissive if overused in sensitive scenarios.
Ideal for casual or humorous conversations, but not recommended for serious or professional topics.