Communication in the digital age has added quite a few terms, symbols and emojis into our lexicon. One such symbol you might have come across is “<3”. So what does “<3” mean in text? This article will help you understand the meaning and usage of this digital shorthand.
Understanding “<3” in Digital Communication
In short, “<3” is a symbol that represents a heart. The “<” represents the left side of the heart and the “3” represents the two lobes of the heart. It’s a shorthand way of expressing love or affection in digital communication.
This symbol has been in use long before the introduction of graphical emojis that we commonly use today. It’s become a staple in modern digital communication, appearing in text messages, social media posts, emails, and more.
How to Use “<3” in Your Messages
Using “<3” is simple and flexible. Similar to how you’d use the word “love”, the “<3” symbol can be used to express affection towards a person, like a family member, friend, or romantic partner. For example, “I <3 you!” or “I <3 this song!”.
There’s even a variation, “<3<3”, which is often used among close friends or lovers as a stronger version of “<3” to signify ‘lots of love’.
The Evolution of “<3”
As technology and digital platforms evolved, so did the way we communicate, and “<3” was no exception. The symbol paved the way for the creation of actual heart-shaped emojis, which are heavily used in platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and others.
Nowadays, if you type “<3” on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, the platform will automatically convert it into a heart emoji. This is the platform essentially recognizing the widespread use of “<3” and automating it for the benefit of the users.
To Conclude
Despite the growing availability and use of graphic emojis, “<3” remains widely in use for its simplicity and versatility. The next time you see “<3” in a message, you now know it symbolizes love or affection. Whether in text messages, social media, or emails, “<3” is a quick way to add a touch of heart into your digital communication!