What Does "UwU" Mean? Emoticon Definition (2022)

What does UWU mean? Is the meaning of UWU bad? Does it mean Ultimate Warrior United? When someone texts with the abbreviation and acronym UWU, it can be confusing to understand what it means.

Learn what "UWU" means in this short guide...

UWU meaning

"UwU" meaning and definition

"UwU," when used in a text message, is depicting an emoji or emoticon of a smiling face. Both the "U" letters in the "UwU" acronym are intended to be eyes, smiling, in a cute face manner. The "w" in the "UwU" acronym is intended to be the faces nose.

It is often used in furry fandom as it has a strong emotional appearance. The emoticon depicting a cute smiley face is frequently used as a response to something that is making the person feel endearing, cute, or loved.

A closely related emoticon is "OwO," which also depicts a emoticon face, although with a shocked look.

"UwU" is considered a happy anime face amongst those familiar with anime culture. Japanese and Korean cultures frequently use this emoticon when responding to something cute or Kawaii.

UwU getting used as an emoticon in a text conversation

How to use "UwU"

Typically, someone would use "UwU" in response to something kind, sincere, or nice. They would be trying to express a very friendly, appreciative smiley face. With the facial expressions that of someone who was happy.

Most commonly, it would get used with capitalization on both of the "U" letters and a lowercase "w." In other circumstances, someone might use it with all lowercase letters. And is less common cases, all capitalization letters.

Furries are fascinated with anthropomorphic animals and they often dress like these animals. The "UwU" acronym is intended to have a similar appearance to a anime-like or cat-like creature having affectionate feelings.

UwU between two people showing a sign of affection and love

History of "UwU"

Urban Dictionary dates the "UwU" use to 2012, although it has gained in popularity starting from 2018 due to Furry Fandom culture rising amongst teenagers and adults in the United States.

In 2018, Mark Hamill used the "UwU" emoticon in a Tweet, increasing the popularity of the use of the acronym and emoticon.

Example of "UwU" in text messages

These examples show someone using the "UwU" acronym to show cuteness or happiness on the internet when having a conversation.

Example one

Friend 1: "I luff you."

Friend 2: "UwU"

This conversation is simple. And conveys the expression that the two people are sharing, which is love.

Example two

Friend 1: "Aww, it's so cute! LOL"

Friend 2: "Yes! My face is like UwU"

In this second example, the two friends are speaking about something that is giving them the emotional response of feeling love, cuteness, or general affection.

Other similar short forms and abbreviations

Similar internet slang terms and emoticon's that could get used online:

OwO: In this emotion, the person is responding to a conversation or event with a shocked face. The facial expression would be depicting someone who is stunned, confused, or generally in awe of a situation.

OwU: A similar emoticon depicting another type of cute face. The "UwU" and "OwU" emoticon are very close in nature. And are only slight variations of the use. The meanings behind the two of them are identical.

Short form and slang guides

Other short form and slang guides to help understand acronyms used by friends:

author: patrick algrim
About the author

Patrick Algrim is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW), NCDA Certified Career Counselor (CCC), and general career expert. Patrick has completed the NACE Coaching Certification Program (CCP). And has been published as a career expert on Forbes, Glassdoor, American Express, Reader's Digest, LiveCareer, Zety, Yahoo, Recruiter.com, SparkHire, SHRM.org, Process.st, FairyGodBoss, HRCI.org, St. Edwards University, NC State University, IBTimes.com, Thrive Global, TMCnet.com, Work It Daily, Workology, Career Guide, MyPerfectResume, College Career Life, The HR Digest, WorkWise, Career Cast, Elite Staffing, Women in HR, All About Careers, Upstart HR, The Street, Monster, The Ladders, Introvert Whisperer, and many more. Find him on LinkedIn.

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