🫡Corpmoji

The workplace emoji, decoded across generations.

The same emoji means very different things to a Boomer manager, a Millennial teammate, and a Gen Z intern. Corpmoji is a field guide to the generational minefield — search 184 emojis to see how their meaning shifts, and how risky they are to send at work.

🧪 Are you communicating like a Boomer or a Zoomer?

Take the 60-second Vibe Check: we show you 5 emojis, you tell us what they really mean, and we date your digital dialect.

184 emojis found

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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Grinning Face with Big Eyes

Boomer / Gen X
Enthusiastic approval or general happiness.
Millennial
Excitement or a polite acknowledgment of good news.
Gen Z
Unsettlingly intense; used to express manic or unhinged energy.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Grinning Face with Smiling Eyes

Boomer / Gen X
Joy, humor, or a polite closing to a message.
Millennial
Warm happiness; a standard filler for friendly digital emails.
Gen Z
Mildly outdated; used ironically to feign happiness during stress.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Beaming Face with Smiling Eyes

Boomer / Gen X
Great excitement, pride, or celebration of an event.
Millennial
Genuine happiness or excitement about upcoming plans.
Gen Z
Rarely used sincerely; denotes an awkward grimace or 'yikes'.
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Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Grinning Squinting Face

Boomer / Gen X
Hearty laughter or finding a joke highly amusing.
Millennial
Finding something very funny, though less intense than the tears of joy emoji.
Gen Z
Obsolete; considered an archaic way to express laughter.
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Grinning Face with Sweat

Boomer / Gen X
Sweating from physical exertion, heat, or mild relief.
Millennial
Nervous laughter, social awkwardness, or avoiding confrontation.
Gen Z
'I'm stressed but fine'; heavy sarcasm regarding an overwhelming situation.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face with Tears of Joy

Boomer / Gen X
Highly humorous; wholesome laughter.
Millennial
The ultimate symbol of finding something hilarious; peak internet humor.
Gen Z
Deeply cringe and outdated; a marker of older generations.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Rolling on the Floor Laughing

Boomer / Gen X
Hysterical laughter; extremely funny.
Millennial
Reserved for extreme hilarity, slightly aggressive laughter.
Gen Z
Boomer humor marker; actively avoided in peer-to-peer communication.
OutdatedCringe
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Smiling Face with Tear

Boomer / Gen X
Happy tears, feeling touched or deeply moved.
Millennial
Smiling through the pain; a polite masking of internal suffering.
Gen Z
'I hate this but can't say it out loud'; extreme masking.
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Smiling Face

Boomer / Gen X
Soft, polite kindness; often used in professional emails.
Millennial
Warmth, affection, or a gentle acknowledgment.
Gen Z
Highly passive-aggressive; denotes simmering rage masked by politeness.
Passive-AggressiveHostile
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Smiling Face with Smiling Eyes

Boomer / Gen X
Genuine pleasure, content, and positive reinforcement.
Millennial
Innocent happiness, sometimes used to soften a text.
Gen Z
Patronizing or condescending, especially when ending an argument.
CondescendingPassive-Aggressive
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Smiling Face with Halo

Boomer / Gen X
Angelic behavior, innocence, or doing a good deed.
Millennial
Feigned innocence after making a mildly inappropriate joke.
Gen Z
Completely sarcastic; acknowledging guilt while pretending to be pure.
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Risk 6/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Slightly Smiling Face

Boomer / Gen X
A simple, pleasant smile; polite acknowledgment.
Millennial
Mild satisfaction or a neutral placeholder in conversation.
Gen Z
Deeply hostile; indicates extreme annoyance, coldness, or silent anger.
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Upside-Down Face

Boomer / Gen X
Confusion, silliness, or not understanding a concept.
Millennial
'FML' (fuck my life); sarcastic resignation to a terrible situation.
Gen Z
Chaotic energy; acknowledging that everything is falling apart.
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Risk 8/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Winking Face

Boomer / Gen X
Flirty, playful, or indicating a shared inside joke.
Millennial
Light flirting or softening a sarcastic comment.
Gen Z
Creepy; perceived as an unwanted romantic advance or extremely outdated.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Relieved Face

Boomer / Gen X
Relaxation, peace, or satisfaction with a job well done.
Millennial
Feeling vindicated, at peace, or resting after a long week.
Gen Z
Smugness; used when feeling superior or unbothered by drama.
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Risk 6/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Smiling Face with Heart-Eyes

Boomer / Gen X
Deep adoration for a person, place, or object.
Millennial
Expressing intense love for food, pets, or significant others.
Gen Z
Overused and basic; occasionally used ironically for unappealing things.
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Smiling Face with Hearts

Boomer / Gen X
Feeling deeply loved, cozy, or showing intense affection.
Millennial
Genuine warmth, gratitude, or romantic affection.
Gen Z
Used to soften a deeply insulting or unhinged comment.
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Risk 7/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face Blowing a Kiss

Boomer / Gen X
Friendly affection or a loving goodbye to family/friends.
Millennial
Sincere romantic affection for a partner or close friend.
Gen Z
Patronizing dismissal; used to end an argument with a sense of superiority.
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Kissing Face

Boomer / Gen X
A polite kiss or a whistling innocent face.
Millennial
Mild affection or an 'oops' expression.
Gen Z
Used in combination with the peace sign to signify a quirky or chaotic exit.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Kissing Face with Smiling Eyes

Boomer / Gen X
Sweet affection, often used toward children or family.
Millennial
Affectionate sign-off to a pleasant conversation.
Gen Z
Largely ignored; occasionally used to feign innocent ignorance.
Outdated
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Kissing Face with Closed Eyes

Boomer / Gen X
Deep affection, usually reserved for romantic partners.
Millennial
Warm, fuzzy feelings toward a loved one or pet.
Gen Z
Replaced by other emojis; viewed as overly earnest.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face Savoring Food

Boomer / Gen X
'Yummy'; used when discussing delicious food.
Millennial
Enjoyment of food or a slightly goofy/playful mood.
Gen Z
Used ironically to indicate 'I am joking' or being mischievous.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face with Tongue

Boomer / Gen X
Playfulness, joking, or being silly.
Millennial
Sarcasm or ensuring a message isn't taken too seriously.
Gen Z
Rarely used sincerely; replaced by more chaotic symbols.
Outdated
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Squinting Face with Tongue

Boomer / Gen X
Extreme silliness or reacting to a funny joke.
Millennial
Playful teasing or indicating a joke is incredibly funny.
Gen Z
Considered incredibly cringe; reminiscent of 2012 internet culture.
CringeOutdated
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Winking Face with Tongue

Boomer / Gen X
Joking, flirting, or being mischievous.
Millennial
Playful banter, sometimes carrying mild sexual undertones.
Gen Z
Completely obsolete; associated with out-of-touch digital communication.
FlirtyCringe
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Zany Face

Boomer / Gen X
Being exceptionally silly, wild, or crazy.
Millennial
Acting goofy, drinking, or having a wild night out.
Gen Z
Used to mask mental breakdown or describe unhinged, chaotic behavior.
UnhingedChaotic
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face with Raised Eyebrow

Boomer / Gen X
Skepticism, doubt, or questioning a statement.
Millennial
Disbelief; 'Are you serious right now?'
Gen Z
Extreme judgment; giving someone the 'side-eye' for suspicious behavior.
JudgmentalHostile
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face with Monocle

Boomer / Gen X
Examining something closely; feeling sophisticated.
Millennial
Investigating internet drama or feigning intellectualism.
Gen Z
'Let me look closer at this nonsense'; mocking someone's logic.
MockingInvestigative
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Nerd Face

Boomer / Gen X
Representing a smart person, studying, or intelligence.
Millennial
Self-deprecating humor about being overly passionate about a hobby.
Gen Z
'Well actually'; used to mock people who correct others or act superior.
MockingInsulting
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Smiling Face with Sunglasses

Boomer / Gen X
Being cool, confident, or relaxing in the sun.
Millennial
Acknowledging a minor victory or feeling smoothly confident.
Gen Z
Highly ironic; used when failing spectacularly but pretending to be cool.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Disguised Face

Boomer / Gen X
Hiding, being sneaky, or wearing a costume.
Millennial
Incognito mode, or trying to avoid being seen in public.
Gen Z
'Sus' (suspicious) behavior; trying to blend in while doing something wrong.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Star-Struck

Boomer / Gen X
Amazement, being deeply impressed, or seeing a celebrity.
Millennial
Overwhelming excitement for a new product, movie, or event.
Gen Z
Sarcastic awe; feigning excitement for something entirely mundane.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Partying Face

Boomer / Gen X
Celebrating a birthday, holiday, or major milestone.
Millennial
Genuine excitement for a friend's success or an upcoming party.
Gen Z
Used sarcastically to celebrate minor, depressing life events.
IronicCelebratory
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Risk 8/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Smirking Face

Boomer / Gen X
Smugness, confidence, or a mild flirtation.
Millennial
Highly suggestive; hinting at sexual innuendo or extreme sarcasm.
Gen Z
Creepy or overly suggestive; considered a major red flag in DMs.
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Unamused Face

Boomer / Gen X
Annoyance, displeasure, or grumpiness.
Millennial
Expressing mild frustration or dealing with a minor inconvenience.
Gen Z
Genuine annoyance; judging someone harshly for their actions.
JudgmentalHostile
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Disappointed Face

Boomer / Gen X
Sadness, let down, or general sorrow.
Millennial
Mild depression, usually related to everyday inconveniences.
Gen Z
Overly dramatic reaction to a minor inconvenience; often used playfully.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Pensive Face

Boomer / Gen X
Deep thought, sorrow, or quiet sadness.
Millennial
Genuine sadness, empathy, or feeling regretful.
Gen Z
Used for the 'sad cowboy' aesthetic; often paired with other emojis for irony.
IronicAesthetic
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Worried Face

Boomer / Gen X
Genuine concern or anxiety about a situation.
Millennial
Nervousness about a deadline or personal issue.
Gen Z
Rarely used; usually replaced by the skull or melting face for anxiety.
Outdated
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Confused Face

Boomer / Gen X
Lack of understanding or mild disagreement.
Millennial
Mild awkwardness or uncertainty about how to respond.
Gen Z
Denotes an 'um, okay?' reaction; judging someone's weird behavior.
Judgmental
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Slightly Frowning Face

Boomer / Gen X
Minor sadness or disappointment.
Millennial
A soft expression of sympathy or minor letdown.
Gen Z
Passive-aggressive disappointment; stronger than a regular frown.
Passive-Aggressive
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Frowning Face

Boomer / Gen X
Deep sadness or displeasure.
Millennial
Genuine unhappiness or sympathy for bad news.
Gen Z
Used ironically to feign caring about something they do not care about.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Persevering Face

Boomer / Gen X
Struggling, trying hard, or dealing with a headache.
Millennial
Extreme frustration, holding back tears, or enduring pain.
Gen Z
Overstimulation; 'I cannot handle this right now.'
AnxiousOverstimulated
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Confounded Face

Boomer / Gen X
Physical pain, disgust, or intense frustration.
Millennial
Screaming internally, extreme cringe at a past memory.
Gen Z
Cringing hard at someone else's embarrassing behavior.
Cringe
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Tired Face

Boomer / Gen X
Physical exhaustion after a long day of work.
Millennial
Dramatic exhaustion, whining, or complaining about responsibilities.
Gen Z
'I am at my limit'; complete physical and emotional breakdown.
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Weary Face

Boomer / Gen X
Extreme weariness, grief, or fatigue.
Millennial
Melodramatic despair, often used when something is too cute or too hard.
Gen Z
Can denote being overwhelmed by attractiveness, or severe mental exhaustion.
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Pleading Face

Boomer / Gen X
Begging for a favor, showing innocence, or sadness.
Millennial
'Puppy dog eyes'; used to ask for something sweetly or express being touched.
Gen Z
Used heavily to express extreme vulnerability, or ironically as a 'simp' marker.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Crying Face

Boomer / Gen X
Real tears, actual sadness, or sympathy.
Millennial
Genuine empathy, sorrow, or crying over a sad movie.
Gen Z
'I'm screaming'; finding something so hilarious it causes tears.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Loudly Crying Face

Boomer / Gen X
Extreme grief, weeping, or tragic news.
Millennial
Overwhelming emotion, whether extreme sadness, frustration, or relief.
Gen Z
Exclusively positive; means something is overwhelmingly cute, sweet, or hilarious.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face with Steam From Nose

Boomer / Gen X
Anger, frustration, or feeling furious.
Millennial
Triumph, determination, or overcoming a major obstacle.
Gen Z
'I am determined' or used aggressively to assert dominance in a joke.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Angry Face

Boomer / Gen X
Genuine anger, displeasure, or warning.
Millennial
Being mad at a situation, often used in a mildly playful rant.
Gen Z
Used ironically to show fake outrage over something trivial.
IronicPlayful
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Pouting Face

Boomer / Gen X
Extreme anger, rage, or furious indignation.
Millennial
Real anger, or heavily emphasized fake anger for comedic effect.
Gen Z
Unhinged rage; used when completely fed up, often spammed.
AggressiveHostile
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Risk 6/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face with Symbols on Mouth

Boomer / Gen X
Cursing, absolute fury, or extreme hostility.
Millennial
Losing one's temper entirely; dealing with customer service.
Gen Z
Pure chaos; matching the unhinged energy of a deeply frustrating event.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Exploding Head

Boomer / Gen X
Mind blown, shock, or learning a shocking fact.
Millennial
Utter disbelief; 'I cannot believe what I just read.'
Gen Z
Discovering something obvious but pretending it is groundbreaking.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Flushed Face

Boomer / Gen X
Embarrassment, shame, or making a mistake.
Millennial
Feeling incredibly awkward, caught off guard, or secondhand embarrassment.
Gen Z
Extreme shock, or used with hand emojis to denote disbelief.
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Risk 7/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Hot Face

Boomer / Gen X
Physical heat, sweating, or summer weather.
Millennial
Finding someone incredibly attractive; 'thirsty.'
Gen Z
'Down bad'; extreme romantic or sexual desperation for someone.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Cold Face

Boomer / Gen X
Freezing temperatures, winter, or physical cold.
Millennial
Feeling literally cold or dealing with harsh weather.
Gen Z
'Cold-hearted,' ruthless behavior, or wearing expensive jewelry.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face Screaming in Fear

Boomer / Gen X
Terror, extreme fear, or mimicking the famous painting.
Millennial
Major shock, awe, or responding to wild gossip.
Gen Z
Exaggerated, ironic fear over something entirely non-threatening.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Fearful Face

Boomer / Gen X
Genuine fear, anxiety, or bad news.
Millennial
Dread over an upcoming event or stressful situation.
Gen Z
Being low-key terrified of a specific hyper-niche internet situation.
Anxious
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Anxious Face with Sweat

Boomer / Gen X
Extreme nervousness, worry, or anxiety.
Millennial
Social anxiety peaking; avoiding a difficult conversation.
Gen Z
Sweating intensely over a risky text or embarrassing moment.
Anxious
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Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Sad but Relieved Face

Boomer / Gen X
Relief after a stressful situation has passed.
Millennial
Phew, avoiding a disaster at the very last second.
Gen Z
Rarely used; considered aesthetically unpleasing by younger cohorts.
Outdated
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Downcast Face with Sweat

Boomer / Gen X
Exhaustion, hard work, or minor depression.
Millennial
Defeated; accepting that things have gone completely wrong.
Gen Z
Deep embarrassment; wanting the ground to swallow them up.
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Hugging Face

Boomer / Gen X
Sending a warm, friendly hug; affection.
Millennial
Friendly support, or used passive-aggressively to dismiss an argument.
Gen Z
Extremely condescending; 'bless your heart' energy.
CondescendingPassive-Aggressive
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Thinking Face

Boomer / Gen X
Pondering a question, deep thought, or curiosity.
Millennial
'Let me think about that'; questioning someone's logic.
Gen Z
Heavy skepticism; 'Are you sure about that?' often used to call out lies.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face with Peeking Eye

Boomer / Gen X
Hiding from something scary but wanting to look.
Millennial
Secondhand embarrassment; watching a trainwreck unfold.
Gen Z
'I know I shouldn't look, but I'm looking'; highly nosy.
NosyEmbarrassed
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face with Hand Over Mouth

Boomer / Gen X
Polite giggling, making a mild mistake, or being coy.
Millennial
'Oops'; dropping a bombshell piece of gossip and pretending to be innocent.
Gen Z
Gossiping heavily; being shady or laughing at someone else's downfall.
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Shushing Face

Boomer / Gen X
'Be quiet,' secrecy, or maintaining silence.
Millennial
Keeping a secret, or telling someone to stop talking.
Gen Z
'Mewing' (a jawline trend), or aggressively telling someone to shut up.
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Lying Face

Boomer / Gen X
Calling someone a liar, Pinocchio reference.
Millennial
'You're lying'; catching someone in a fib.
Gen Z
'Liar liar pants on fire'; calling out deceit aggressively.
AccusatoryHostile
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face Without Mouth

Boomer / Gen X
Speechless, silence, or having nothing to say.
Millennial
Complete shock, or 'I have no words for this stupidity.'
Gen Z
Disassociation; zoning out entirely from the conversation.
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Neutral Face

Boomer / Gen X
No emotion, neutrality, or a plain face.
Millennial
Deadpan reaction to a terrible joke; 'I am not amused.'
Gen Z
The ultimate sign of unimpressed judgment; 'Hold up, wait' when used with hands.
JudgmentalApathetic
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Expressionless Face

Boomer / Gen X
Boredom, annoyance, or lacking enthusiasm.
Millennial
Extreme annoyance; dealing with someone's incompetence.
Gen Z
Utter exhaustion with someone's behavior; ready to block them.
HostileJudgmental
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Grimacing Face

Boomer / Gen X
Awkwardness, mistakes, or physical pain.
Millennial
'Yikes'; extreme social awkwardness or secondhand cringe.
Gen Z
The physical embodiment of the word 'oof'; extreme discomfort.
AwkwardCringe
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Risk 6/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face with Rolling Eyes

Boomer / Gen X
Disapproval, annoyance, or thinking something is stupid.
Millennial
Classic eye-roll; dealing with annoying people or minor inconveniences.
Gen Z
Extreme disrespect; completely dismissing someone's entire existence.
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Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Hushed Face

Boomer / Gen X
Surprise, being quiet, or a mild gasp.
Millennial
Mild surprise or an 'oh!' moment.
Gen Z
Rarely used; viewed as an inferior version of the skull or melting face.
Outdated
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Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Frowning Face with Open Mouth

Boomer / Gen X
Shock, bad news, or dismay.
Millennial
Disappointment combined with surprise.
Gen Z
Ignored in favor of more extreme emojis.
Outdated
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Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Anguished Face

Boomer / Gen X
Deep anguish, shock, or sorrow.
Millennial
Feeling overwhelmed by a negative turn of events.
Gen Z
Replaced by the crying or skull emojis.
Outdated
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face with Open Mouth

Boomer / Gen X
Astonishment, surprise, or awe.
Millennial
A genuine gasp of surprise.
Gen Z
Used ironically to feign shock at obvious news.
Click to copy
Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Astonished Face

Boomer / Gen X
Absolute amazement, shock, or being stunned.
Millennial
'Wow!'; genuine awe at a revelation.
Gen Z
Sarcastic amazement.
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Risk 6/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Yawning Face

Boomer / Gen X
Tiredness, needing sleep, or being bored.
Millennial
'I'm exhausted and going to bed.'
Gen Z
'You are boring me'; ultimate disrespect in an argument.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Sleeping Face

Boomer / Gen X
Literally sleeping, bedtime, or dreaming.
Millennial
Going offline for the night.
Gen Z
'Don't sleep on this' or signifying that a topic is incredibly boring.
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Risk 6/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Drooling Face

Boomer / Gen X
Craving food, hunger, or delicious meals.
Millennial
Seeing delicious food, or expressing attraction to someone.
Gen Z
Extreme thirst or attraction; down bad for a celebrity or crush.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Sleepy Face

Boomer / Gen X
Being sleepy, tired, or resting.
Millennial
Dejected sadness, crying softly, or emotional exhaustion.
Gen Z
Viewed as sleepy; the nasal bubble is often misunderstood.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Dizzy Face

Boomer / Gen X
Dizziness, sickness, or being knocked out.
Millennial
Overwhelmed, intoxicated, or spinning from too much information.
Gen Z
Absolute confusion or sensory overload.
Chaotic
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Zipper-Mouth Face

Boomer / Gen X
Keeping a secret, silence, or 'my lips are sealed.'
Millennial
Discretion; 'I won't tell anyone.'
Gen Z
'I could speak, but I won't'; holding back a devastating insult.
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Woozy Face

Boomer / Gen X
Intoxicated, dizzy, or feeling unwell.
Millennial
Being drunk, incredibly confused, or completely baffled.
Gen Z
A chaotic mix of disgust, confusion, and attraction; a messy vibe.
Click to copy
Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Nauseated Face

Boomer / Gen X
Physical sickness, nausea, or disgust.
Millennial
Absolute disgust at a situation, food, or behavior.
Gen Z
'This makes me sick'; judging someone's horrible aesthetic or take.
JudgmentalHostile
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face Vomiting

Boomer / Gen X
Vomiting from illness, food poisoning, or gross things.
Millennial
Extreme disgust; violently rejecting an idea or image.
Gen Z
Used for extreme revulsion, or ironically when something is 'too good.'
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Sneezing Face

Boomer / Gen X
Having a cold, allergies, or being sick.
Millennial
Taking a sick day, or wiping away a tear.
Gen Z
'Sickening' (in a good way); looking so good it makes others sick.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face with Medical Mask

Boomer / Gen X
Being sick, contagious, or working in healthcare.
Millennial
Avoiding germs, COVID-19 reference, or feeling under the weather.
Gen Z
'Toxic vibes'; protecting oneself from someone else's terrible energy.
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Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face with Thermometer

Boomer / Gen X
Having a fever, the flu, or being bedridden.
Millennial
Genuinely ill; calling out of work.
Gen Z
Ignored; replaced by skull.
Outdated
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Face with Head-Bandage

Boomer / Gen X
Physical injury, accident, or headache.
Millennial
Recovering from a physical or emotional blow.
Gen Z
'Taking emotional damage' from an insult or situation.
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Money-Mouth Face

Boomer / Gen X
Wealth, payday, making money, or greed.
Millennial
Payday, side hustles, or winning a bet.
Gen Z
Cringe; associated with crypto-bros or scam artists.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Cowboy Hat Face

Boomer / Gen X
Western themes, country music, or Texas.
Millennial
'Yeehaw'; embarking on a wild or mildly reckless adventure.
Gen Z
Used to mask deep emotional pain; the 'sad cowboy' coping mechanism.
AestheticMasking
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Risk 6/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Smiling Face with Horns

Boomer / Gen X
Evil, the devil, Halloween, or bad behavior.
Millennial
Naughty behavior, scheming, or mild sexual innuendo.
Gen Z
'Demon time'; engaging in ruthless, chaotic, or highly promiscuous behavior.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Angry Face with Horns

Boomer / Gen X
The devil, evil, or extreme anger.
Millennial
Genuine rage or demonic anger.
Gen Z
Rarely used; inferior to the smiling version.
Outdated
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Ogre

Boomer / Gen X
Japanese folklore, monsters, or Halloween.
Millennial
Calling someone a monster or describing a terrible hangover.
Gen Z
'Goblin mode'; acting feral, unhinged, and completely without grace.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Goblin

Boomer / Gen X
Monsters, anger, or masks.
Millennial
Extreme annoyance or feeling villainous.
Gen Z
Similar to the ogre; embracing feral, unbothered behavior.
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Pile of Poo

Boomer / Gen X
Literal feces, bathrooms, or a bad situation.
Millennial
'This is crap'; describing a terrible day or poor quality item.
Gen Z
Used ironically for shitposting; generally seen as juvenile.
JuvenileUnprofessional
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Ghost

Boomer / Gen X
Halloween, ghosts, or the paranormal.
Millennial
'Ghosting' someone (cutting off contact) or Snapchat.
Gen Z
Disappearing completely from a situation; 'I'm out.'
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Skull

Boomer / Gen X
Literal death, danger, poison, or Halloween.
Millennial
'I'm dead' (exhaustion); energetic weariness after work.
Gen Z
'I'm dying of laughter'; the primary indicator of extreme hilarity.
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Skull and Crossbones

Boomer / Gen X
Danger, pirates, or toxic substances.
Millennial
Severe danger or extreme exhaustion.
Gen Z
Used when the regular skull isn't strong enough; ultimate laughter.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Alien

Boomer / Gen X
Space, extraterrestrials, or sci-fi.
Millennial
Feeling alienated, weird, or 'out of this world.'
Gen Z
Acknowledging bizarre, non-human behavior; dissociation.
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Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Alien Monster

Boomer / Gen X
Video games, arcades, or retro gaming.
Millennial
Nostalgia for 8-bit gaming or expressing a glitchy mood.
Gen Z
Rarely used; associated with older gaming culture.
Outdated
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Robot

Boomer / Gen X
Technology, artificial intelligence, or machinery.
Millennial
Feeling emotionless, robotic, or burnt out from repetitive work.
Gen Z
Calling someone an NPC (Non-Playable Character) or lacking critical thought.
InsultingMocking
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Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Jack-O-Lantern

Boomer / Gen X
Halloween season, autumn, or pumpkins.
Millennial
'Spooky season'; excitement for October.
Gen Z
Used exclusively during autumn; straightforward meaning.
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Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Grinning Cat

Boomer / Gen X
A happy cat, pets, or cuteness.
Millennial
Friendly interaction for cat lovers.
Gen Z
Ignored in favor of human emojis.
Niche
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Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Grinning Cat with Smiling Eyes

Boomer / Gen X
A very happy cat.
Millennial
Expressing feline joy.
Gen Z
Ignored.
Niche
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Cat with Tears of Joy

Boomer / Gen X
Finding something funny (cat version).
Millennial
Quirky alternative to the human tears of joy for pet owners.
Gen Z
Cringe; associated with 'Facebook moms.'
CringeOutdated
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Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Smiling Cat with Heart-Eyes

Boomer / Gen X
Loving a cat, or a cat loving something.
Millennial
Adores a pet or object.
Gen Z
Obsolete.
Outdated
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Waving Hand

Boomer / Gen X
Saying hello or goodbye; a friendly greeting.
Millennial
A polite digital wave at the start of an email or chat.
Gen Z
'Bye'; dismissing someone abruptly or indicating departure.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Raised Back of Hand

Boomer / Gen X
Stop, or raising a hand in class.
Millennial
'High five' or holding up a hand to pause a conversation.
Gen Z
'Hold up, wait'; used to pause a chaotic situation.
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Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Hand with Fingers Splayed

Boomer / Gen X
Waving, the number five, or stop.
Millennial
A rigid wave or showing the palm.
Gen Z
Rarely used.
Outdated
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Raised Hand

Boomer / Gen X
Stop, halt, or volunteering.
Millennial
Setting a boundary; 'talk to the hand.'
Gen Z
'Stop right there'; used with a neutral face for judgment.
JudgmentalCombinatorial
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Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Vulcan Salute

Boomer / Gen X
Star Trek, sci-fi, 'live long and prosper.'
Millennial
Nerd culture acknowledgment.
Gen Z
Generally ignored unless specifically discussing sci-fi.
Niche
Click to copy
Risk 7/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

OK Hand

Boomer / Gen X
'Okay', perfect, or approval.
Millennial
'Just right', perfection, or a Chef's kiss equivalent.
Gen Z
Extremely risky due to co-option by alt-right hate groups in certain contexts.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Pinched Fingers

Boomer / Gen X
Italian gesture for 'what do you want?' or good food.
Millennial
'Chef's kiss'; absolute perfection in execution.
Gen Z
Aggressive questioning or signifying extreme, specific perfection.
Click to copy
Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Pinching Hand

Boomer / Gen X
A small amount, tiny size, or 'just a little.'
Millennial
Signifying a small margin of error or a tiny object.
Gen Z
Used to denote eager anticipation of gossip (sipping tea).
Click to copy
Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Victory Hand

Boomer / Gen X
Peace sign, victory, or two of something.
Millennial
'Peace out'; leaving a situation or softening a goodbye.
Gen Z
Dissolving into the ether; leaving a chaotic situation casually.
CasualAesthetic
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Crossed Fingers

Boomer / Gen X
Hoping for good luck, wishing, or a promise.
Millennial
'Fingers crossed' for an outcome; hoping things work out.
Gen Z
Swearing loyalty, or hoping someone's delusion comes true.
Click to copy
Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Love-You Gesture

Boomer / Gen X
I love you (ASL), rock and roll, or excitement.
Millennial
Deep affection or rocking out.
Gen Z
Often confused with the rock sign; used for casual affection.
Friendly
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Sign of the Horns

Boomer / Gen X
Rock and roll, heavy metal, or Texas Longhorns.
Millennial
Rebellion, rocking out, or showing hardcore approval.
Gen Z
'Hardcore'; doing something mildly dangerous or exciting.
Click to copy
Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Call Me Hand

Boomer / Gen X
'Call me,' surfing, Hawaii, or 'hang loose.'
Millennial
'Chill,' relaxed vibes, or an informal agreement.
Gen Z
Rarely used; viewed as boomer shorthand for 'call me right now.'
Click to copy
Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Backhand Index Pointing Left

Boomer / Gen X
Pointing left, direction, or 'look here.'
Millennial
Drawing attention to text on the left.
Gen Z
Used with pointing right to signify shyness or 'bottom energy.'
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Backhand Index Pointing Right

Boomer / Gen X
Pointing right, direction, or 'next.'
Millennial
Drawing attention to text on the right.
Gen Z
'Imma head out'; showing someone the door when combined with door emoji.
Click to copy
Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Backhand Index Pointing Up

Boomer / Gen X
Pointing up, looking at the above text, or number one.
Millennial
'Read the message above' or agreeing with a previous text.
Gen Z
'Well actually'; mocking someone who corrects others.
MockingCombinatorial
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Risk 10/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Middle Finger

Boomer / Gen X
Profanity, flipping someone off, or extreme anger.
Millennial
Direct insult, vulgarity, or aggressive joking with close friends.
Gen Z
Pure disrespect; a massive HR violation in any professional context.
Click to copy
Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Backhand Index Pointing Down

Boomer / Gen X
Pointing down, 'look below,' or indicating a link.
Millennial
Directing attention to a hyperlink or following message.
Gen Z
Emphasizing a point heavily; 'this right here.'
Utilitarian
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Index Pointing Up

Boomer / Gen X
'Hold on a minute,' raising a point, or number one.
Millennial
'Just one second' or asking to speak.
Gen Z
Mocking intellectual superiority when combined with nerd face.
MockingCombinatorial
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Thumbs Down

Boomer / Gen X
Disapproval, 'no,' or bad job.
Millennial
Rejecting an idea or showing dissatisfaction.
Gen Z
Extreme rejection; 'this is an L' (loss).
HostileNegative
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Raised Fist

Boomer / Gen X
Solidarity, strength, or knocking on a door.
Millennial
Black Lives Matter, social justice, or general solidarity.
Gen Z
Catching oneself before saying something stupid.
PoliticalCombinatorial
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Oncoming Fist

Boomer / Gen X
A punch, violence, or a 'bro fist' bump.
Millennial
A fist bump of agreement or 'you got this.'
Gen Z
Squaring up; getting ready to fight someone physically or verbally.
Click to copy
Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Left-Facing Fist

Boomer / Gen X
A fist bump (left side).
Millennial
Part of a fist bump sequence.
Gen Z
Hitting someone; used in combat roleplay.
Playful
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Right-Facing Fist

Boomer / Gen X
A fist bump (right side).
Millennial
Part of a fist bump sequence.
Gen Z
Paired with left fist to signify a successful collaboration.
Playful
Click to copy
Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Clapping Hands

Boomer / Gen X
Applause, good job, or praise.
Millennial
'Bravo,' or clapping between words for aggressive emphasis.
Gen Z
Sarcastic slow clap, or emphasizing a strict boundary.
Passive-AggressiveEmphatic
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Raising Hands

Boomer / Gen X
Praise, celebration, or religion (Hallelujah).
Millennial
'Yay! We did it!', big enthusiasm, or celebrating a Friday.
Gen Z
'Cool if used right'; otherwise seen as slightly basic.
Click to copy
Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Open Hands

Boomer / Gen X
Openness, a hug, or jazz hands.
Millennial
'Ta-da!' or showing off an accomplishment.
Gen Z
Rarely used; overshadowed by sparkles.
Outdated
Click to copy
Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Palms Up Together

Boomer / Gen X
Prayer (in Islam), asking for help, or receiving.
Millennial
Praying for a good outcome or begging.
Gen Z
'Please'; begging for a drop of content or attention.
Pleading
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Handshake

Boomer / Gen X
Agreement, a deal, or meeting someone.
Millennial
Professional agreement or 'pleasure doing business.'
Gen Z
'Real recognize real'; absolute mutual respect for a niche opinion.
Click to copy
Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Writing Hand

Boomer / Gen X
Writing a letter, studying, or taking a test.
Millennial
Working hard, signing a document, or taking notes.
Gen Z
'Noted'; taking notes on someone's good advice or bad behavior.
Click to copy
Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Selfie

Boomer / Gen X
Taking a picture of oneself, mobile phones.
Millennial
Vanity, posting on Instagram, or documenting a moment.
Gen Z
Being overly self-involved or capturing evidence of drama.
Vain
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Flexed Biceps

Boomer / Gen X
Strength, working out, or physical power.
Millennial
'Stay strong,' motivation, or gym progress.
Gen Z
'We go gym'; masculine energy, or ironically flexing a minor win.
Motivational
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Leg

Boomer / Gen X
A literal leg, running, or kicking.
Millennial
'Leg day' at the gym.
Gen Z
Used chaotically to signify kicking someone out.
Chaotic
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Foot

Boomer / Gen X
A literal foot, walking, or barefoot.
Millennial
Stepping on something or foot pain.
Gen Z
Associated with foot fetishes; used to gross people out.
Click to copy
Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Ear

Boomer / Gen X
Hearing, listening, or the ear.
Millennial
'I'm listening' or 'tell me more.'
Gen Z
Eavesdropping on drama; 'I'm all ears.'
NosyGossip
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Risk 1/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Ear with Hearing Aid

Boomer / Gen X
Accessibility, hearing aids, or deafness.
Millennial
Promoting accessibility and inclusion.
Gen Z
Niche; utilized for literal representation.
Accessibility
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Nose

Boomer / Gen X
Smelling, a nose, or fragrance.
Millennial
Smelling something good or bad.
Gen Z
'Something smells sus'; detecting a lie.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Brain

Boomer / Gen X
Intelligence, thinking, or the human brain.
Millennial
Mental health, therapy, or doing hard thinking.
Gen Z
'Brainrot'; having zero attention span, or acting incredibly stupid.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Anatomical Heart

Boomer / Gen X
Biology, anatomy, or the physical heart.
Millennial
Medical discussions or literal heartbreak.
Gen Z
A more intense, raw version of the red heart; visceral, undeniable love.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Lungs

Boomer / Gen X
Breathing, anatomy, or respiration.
Millennial
Deep breaths, meditation, or smoking.
Gen Z
Screaming at the top of one's lungs.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Tooth

Boomer / Gen X
Dentistry, teeth, or a toothache.
Millennial
Going to the dentist or oral hygiene.
Gen Z
'Spilling teeth'; a chaotic threat of violence in jest.
ChaoticAggressive
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Bone

Boomer / Gen X
Dogs, skeletons, or Halloween.
Millennial
Throwing a dog a bone, or injuries.
Gen Z
Being entirely stripped down; 'bare bones' or dead.
Aesthetic
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Eye

Boomer / Gen X
Vision, a single eye, or the Illuminati.
Millennial
Surveillance or being watched.
Gen Z
Used in combination with lips to indicate frozen shock or trauma.
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Risk 8/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Tongue

Boomer / Gen X
Tasting, a tongue, or licking.
Millennial
Playful silliness or eating.
Gen Z
Highly sexualized; oral sex innuendo.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Mouth

Boomer / Gen X
Lips, kissing, or speaking.
Millennial
Gossip, lipstick, or talking too much.
Gen Z
Used in combo with single eyes for utter, paralyzed disbelief.
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Kiss Mark

Boomer / Gen X
A kiss, lipstick, or romance.
Millennial
Flirty sign-off or Valentine's Day.
Gen Z
'Sealed with a kiss'; acting petty and dramatic before leaving.
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Crown

Boomer / Gen X
Royalty, a king/queen, or winning.
Millennial
'Slay queen,' empowerment, or being the boss.
Gen Z
Recognizing someone as the ultimate winner; warning: trafficking symbol.
EmpoweringControversial Context
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Briefcase

Boomer / Gen X
Work, an office job, or a lawyer.
Millennial
'Back to the grind,' corporate life, or business trips.
Gen Z
'Securing the bag'; making money or entering corporate hell.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Wilted Flower

Boomer / Gen X
A dying plant, autumn, or neglect.
Millennial
Extreme sadness, gothic aesthetic, or heartbreak.
Gen Z
The new underground symbol for authentic sadness, replacing the broken heart.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Broken Heart

Boomer / Gen X
Heartbreak, divorce, or losing a loved one.
Millennial
Emotional devastation, a breakup, or a tragedy.
Gen Z
Mainstream and performative; considered a basic way to show sadness.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Red Heart

Boomer / Gen X
Love, genuine affection, or romance.
Millennial
Heartfelt romance, deep friendship, or support.
Gen Z
Too basic; used for professional rejection or deemed overly formal.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Fire

Boomer / Gen X
A literal fire, camping, or a fireplace.
Millennial
Approval, motivation, or calling something exciting.
Gen Z
'Lit,' 'hot,' or 'cool'; heavily used to praise aesthetics or fits.
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Risk 9/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Sweat Droplets

Boomer / Gen X
Water, rain, sweating, or washing.
Millennial
Working out, sweating hard, or drinking water.
Gen Z
Highly sexualized; explicit reference to sexual fluids or extreme arousal.
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Risk 10/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Eggplant

Boomer / Gen X
A literal vegetable, farming, or cooking.
Millennial
Almost universally understood as a phallic symbol.
Gen Z
Explicitly male genitalia; entirely inappropriate for formal settings.
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Risk 9/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Peach

Boomer / Gen X
A literal fruit, summer, or Georgia.
Millennial
Universally understood as representing human buttocks.
Gen Z
Buttocks, 'thiccness,' or explicit sexual appeal.
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Risk 6/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Taco

Boomer / Gen X
Mexican food, dinner, or a food truck.
Millennial
'Taco Tuesday' or loving food.
Gen Z
Sometimes utilized as a euphemism for female anatomy.
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Hot Beverage

Boomer / Gen X
Coffee, tea, morning routines, or breakfast.
Millennial
'But that's none of my business' (Kermit meme); sipping coffee.
Gen Z
'Tea'; pure gossip. Used with pinch fingers to mean eager to hear drama.
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Triangular Flag

Boomer / Gen X
A golf flag, a marker, or a warning.
Millennial
'Red flag'; identifying toxic traits in dating or friendships.
Gen Z
Extreme toxicity; signaling someone is an absolute menace or abuser.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Stop Sign

Boomer / Gen X
Traffic laws, driving, or literally stopping.
Millennial
'Stop what you're doing right now.'
Gen Z
'Full stop'; refusing to engage further with terrible logic.
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Risk 7/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Pill

Boomer / Gen X
Medicine, illness, or doctors.
Millennial
Taking vitamins, prescriptions, or being sick.
Gen Z
'Red pill/blue pill' internet culture, or recreational drug use.
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Risk 6/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Syringe

Boomer / Gen X
Doctors, vaccines, or drawing blood.
Millennial
Getting a shot, healthcare, or tattoos.
Gen Z
Extreme toxicity, drugs, or 'inject this into my veins' (hyper-fixation).
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Risk 8/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Water Pistol

Boomer / Gen X
Originally a real gun, now a squirt gun; summer fun.
Millennial
Acknowledging the platform shift from real weapon to toy.
Gen Z
Used to signify violence, threats, or aggressive demands, despite rendering.
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Risk 6/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Bomb

Boomer / Gen X
Explosives, war, or danger.
Millennial
Dropping a 'truth bomb' or something being 'the bomb' (good).
Gen Z
Sudden, catastrophic failure, or aggressive toxicity.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Headstone

Boomer / Gen X
Cemeteries, death, or mourning.
Millennial
A literal grave or spooky aesthetic.
Gen Z
Augments the skull emoji; 'I am truly dead and buried from laughing.'
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Hole

Boomer / Gen X
A hole in the ground, construction.
Millennial
Falling into a pit of despair or depression.
Gen Z
Used to disappear from drama or pretend to be blind to red flags.
AvoidantCombinatorial
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Door

Boomer / Gen X
A literal door, a house, or entry.
Millennial
'Showing myself out' after a bad joke.
Gen Z
'Imma head out'; exiting a toxic or awkward situation immediately.
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Parachute

Boomer / Gen X
Skydiving, extreme sports, or falling.
Millennial
Taking a leap of faith or trying something new.
Gen Z
Bailing out of an argument rapidly.
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Person Cartwheeling

Boomer / Gen X
Gymnastics, sports, or being active.
Millennial
Joy, flipping out, or acrobatics.
Gen Z
Cartwheeling away from consequences or into a hole.
AvoidantChaotic
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Risk 7/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Clown Face

Boomer / Gen X
The circus, clowns, or children's parties.
Millennial
'I am an idiot'; self-deprecation after making a foolish mistake.
Gen Z
'You are a fool'; mocking someone heavily; a major insult.
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Risk 5/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Nail Polish

Boomer / Gen X
Getting a manicure, cosmetics, or beauty.
Millennial
Treating oneself, self-care, or feeling pretty.
Gen Z
'Throwing shade,' being unbothered, or acting superior and petty.
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Risk 6/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Thumbs Up

Boomer / Gen X
A nice way to say ok, good job, or universal approval.
Millennial
'I've got it,' agreement, or professional acknowledgment.
Gen Z
Highly sarcastic, passive-aggressive, or dismissive; 'sure, whatever.'
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Risk 3/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Folded Hands

Boomer / Gen X
Prayer, religious devotion, or please.
Millennial
'Thank you so much,' deep gratitude, or begging.
Gen Z
Pleading intensely, or a dramatic 'thank you.'
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Sparkles

Boomer / Gen X
Literal sparkles, magic, or cleaning.
Millennial
'Magical,' adding emphasis, or purely for positive vibes.
Gen Z
'Still slays'; used for intense irony, sarcasm, or highlighting a failure.
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Billed Cap

Boomer / Gen X
A baseball hat, sports, or literal headwear.
Millennial
Confused unless discussing sports or sunny weather.
Gen Z
'Cap' (a lie); calling someone out for completely fabricating a story.
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Risk 4/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Eyes

Boomer / Gen X
'I see you,' looking, or physical eyes.
Millennial
Nosy gossip, 'following' a thread, or drama.
Gen Z
Side-eye, extreme judgment, or looking disrespectfully.
JudgmentalGossipNosy
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Risk 2/10iScores 1–10 evaluate the likelihood of HR friction or legal liability based on employment litigation trends and sociolinguistic drift. Click here to read the full methodology.

Hundred Points

Boomer / Gen X
'Good job!', perfect score, or 100%.
Millennial
Motivation, emphasis, or 'keep it real.'
Gen Z
Cringe; gives off try-hard vibes or toxic hustle culture.
CringeOutdated