Emoticons Information

A chat site in which a writer uses a emoticon to express an emotion

Emoticons are graphics that depict emotions and moods, and are used in most forms of online communication. The word, emoticon, is the blend of two different English words, emotion and icon.

History

Emoticons go back to the 19th century when they were used mostly in humorous writings, but the digital version dates back to the early 1980s.

Function

Emoticons are mostly used by Internet users who are participating in online games, or who are using instant messenger communication software to speak to others. Examples include a smiley face for depicting someone who is happy or a frown for depicting someone who is sad.

Types

Different parts of the world have different emoticons, which have a variety of meanings. There are western-style emoticons, eastern-style emoticons and Asian-style emoticons.

Considerations

Over the years, attempts have been made to trademark or patent certain emoticons. The U.S. company Despair Inc., obtained a trademark for the "frowny" emoticon in 2000, and the country of Finland has permitted emoticon trademarks since 2006.

Theories/Speculation

An 1862 Abraham Lincoln speech may have included a "winking" emoticon, but it is not clear whether its use was a purposeful usage or a typographical error.

References

• Emoticon Thread
• The History of Emoticons and Smileys
• New York Times blog

Resources

• Don't Mind that Lawsuit it's Just a Joke