Incel Emoji Meanings: Decode Hidden Symbols
Netflix's "Adolescence" series exposed the secretive emoji code language used by incel communities. Our guide explains what these incel emojis mean and why parents, educators, and digital literacy professionals should be informed.
Understanding Incel Emoji Meanings
Following "Adolescence" on Netflix, major publications have highlighted how specific emoji codes are used within incel communities. This comprehensive guide explains what incel emojis mean and helps identify when young people might be exposed to harmful ideologies.
"Parents are being warned about the hidden incel emoji meanings their children could be using in their messages... as featured in Netflix's new hit mini-series 'Adolescence'."— Daily Mail
While most emoji usage is completely innocent, knowing these potential warning signs can help protect vulnerable teens from harmful ideologies portrayed in the show.
Key Incel Emoji Meanings from "Adolescence"
Red Pill
The red pill emoji symbolizes an incel's 'awakening' to their ideology. Derived from The Matrix movie, it represents the moment someone believes they see the 'truth' about gender dynamics.
Dynamite/Lightning
Represents an 'exploding red pill' - someone who has fully embraced extreme incel ideology and might be prone to radicalization.
Hundred Points
References the '80/20 rule' - the misguided belief that 80% of women only pursue 20% of men, a cornerstone of incel ideology.
Beans
Used as a covert incel identifier in online spaces. When someone uses this seemingly innocent emoji, it can signal their affiliation with incel communities.
Incel Emoji Meanings Explained: From Netflix to Real Life
Netflix's "Adolescence" showed how innocent-looking emojis can have hidden incel meanings within certain online communities. These emoji codes form part of a secretive language that signals concerning ideologies and beliefs.
The Red Pill 💊 Concept
The red pill emoji is central to incel ideology. As shown in "Adolescence," it symbolizes a person's alleged "awakening" to what they believe is the true nature of gender dynamics. This concept is borrowed from "The Matrix" film, where taking the red pill lets one see "reality." The danger lies in how this symbol indicates acceptance of harmful and misogynistic worldviews.
The "80/20 Rule" and 💯
The 100 emoji in incel communities references the so-called "80/20 rule" or "Pareto principle" - the false belief that 80% of women only pursue relationships with the top 20% of men. "Adolescence" shows how this emoji is used to reinforce this incorrect worldview about dating and relationships, promoting resentment and harmful attitudes.
Radicalization Symbols: The Lightning ⚡
The lightning or dynamite emoji represents what "Adolescence" portrays as an "exploding red pill" - someone who has fully embraced extreme ideologies and may be at risk of radicalization to violence. This is particularly concerning as it may indicate someone is moving beyond online rhetoric to potential real-world harm.
Covert Identifiers: The Beans 🫘
Perhaps most insidious is the beans emoji, which "Adolescence" depicts as a covert identifier. This seemingly innocent symbol serves as a "digital handshake" or secret code that allows community members to recognize each other without alerting outsiders. Its innocuous appearance makes it particularly effective for flying under the radar.
Heart Emoji Meanings in Incel Culture
In Adolescence, different colored heart emojis have specific meanings beyond their traditional interpretations:
Red Heart
Standard: Standard meaning of love and affection.
In "Adolescence": In Adolescence, explained as signifying genuine love or romantic interest.
Purple Heart
Standard: Typically represents compassion or admiration.
In "Adolescence": As explained in Adolescence, can indicate sexual interest or being 'horny'.
Yellow Heart
Standard: Traditionally signifies friendship and happiness.
In "Adolescence": In teen contexts and shown in Adolescence, can mean 'I'm interested, are you interested?'
Pink Heart
Standard: Represents affection and tenderness.
In "Adolescence": Can indicate 'I'm interested but not in sex' as explained in the show.
Orange Heart
Standard: Typically indicates warmth and enthusiasm.
In "Adolescence": As shown in Adolescence, can mean 'you're going to be fine' in supportive contexts.
Hidden Drug References in Emoji
While not featured prominently in "Adolescence," these emojis are often used to discuss illicit substances according to law enforcement and online safety resources:
🌿Cannabis References
These seemingly innocent fruit, animal, and food emojis may be used to reference cannabis or specific strains.
❄️Cocaine References
These emojis may be used to discuss cocaine, often referencing snow, blow, or methods of consumption.
💊Other Substances
🔌Drug Dealing Indicators
According to Surrey Police and other law enforcement agencies, these symbols may indicate drug dealing or seeking drugs online.
Guidance for Parents and Educators
Following the release of "Adolescence" on Netflix, many parents and educators have questions about how to address these emoji codes with young people. Here are some helpful approaches:
Do's
- ✓Have open, non-judgmental conversations about online safety
- ✓Focus on media literacy and critical thinking skills
- ✓Discuss healthy relationships and respect
- ✓Be aware of changes in behavior or concerning language
- ✓Seek professional help if you notice signs of radicalization
Don'ts
- ✗Panic if you see these emojis - context matters
- ✗Invade privacy without reason - build trust instead
- ✗Assume all emoji use is concerning - most is innocent
- ✗Approach conversations with accusation or judgment
- ✗Ignore consistent patterns of concerning behavior
Remember that context is crucial. A single emoji on its own rarely indicates a problem, but patterns of concerning language alongside these symbols may warrant attention. Focus on building open communication and trust rather than surveillance.
Sexting & Suggestive Emoji Codes
Peach
Commonly used to reference buttocks in sexual contexts.
Eggplant
Widely recognized reference to male genitalia.
Sweat Droplets
Often used to represent sexual fluids.
Cherries
Can be used to reference female breasts or virginity.
Secret Messaging Codes
Beyond emojis, teens may use these abbreviations to hide conversations from parents:
"Communication, which was supposed to be simple in the digital age, has become more complex than ever. It could be a harmless text on the surface, but what 'Adolescence' tells us is that it probably is not. These abbreviations and emoticons are not just random ways of communication, but most of them have been created to do away with the parental watch."
Media Coverage of "Adolescence" Emoji Meanings
Following the release of Netflix's "Adolescence," several major publications have reported on the hidden emoji meanings depicted in the show:
Daily Mail
"Parents warned about incel emoji meanings that could appear in children's messages following Netflix's Adolescence"
Read articleNetMums
"The hidden meanings behind the emojis in your child's phone messages all parents need to know"
Read articleExplore Related Topics
Stay Informed with Our Emoji Tools
Understanding emoji meanings is essential in today's digital world, especially with shows like "Adolescence" highlighting their potential misuse.