What Does the 😮 (Face with Open Mouth) Emoji Mean?

PDF download Download Article
Your guide to the 😮 (face with open mouth) emoji, its purpose in texting and social media, and how to use it
PDF download Download Article

If someone drops the 😮 (face with open mouth) emoji in a text, you may wonder what they meant by it—and we’re here to help you solve the mystery! Also called the surprised emoji, “wow” emoji, or the open mouth emoji, there are a few different ways to use it, and now you can learn all of them. Read on for a complete overview of the 😮 (face with open mouth) emoji, including how to use it, respond to it, and combine it with other popular emojis.

Things You Should Know

  • The 😮 (face with open mouth) emoji typically means “Wow!” It expresses surprise, disbelief, and admiration.
  • Use the 😮 emoji to tell someone how talented they are or convey your shock when someone sends you unexpected news.
  • Express disbelief and worry using the 😮 emoji when someone surprises you with bad news.
  • Alternatively, use the 😮 emoji to express light humor and sarcasm.
Section 1 of 4:

What does the 😮 emoji mean?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0e\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0e\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When you feel admiration and awe towards someone, the 😮 emoji can depict those feelings. It can be used alongside or in place of phrases like “Whoa!” and “Oh, my!” You’ll usually find the 😮 emoji in texts or social media posts with a lighthearted tone. [1]
    • “You really did all that in a few hours? 😮 So cool!”
    • “Whoa, that drawing is insane! 😮 You’re so talented.”
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/56\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/56\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Though it’s mainly a lighthearted emoji, many people use it to express everything from mild surprise to serious shock and incredulity. In short, the 😮 emoji is adaptable and depicts varying degrees of astonishment. [2]
    • “Are you serious? 😮 LOL, that’s wild.”
    • “I can’t believe I didn’t know that! 😮 Genuinely kinda shook right now.”
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/41\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/41\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you’re suddenly hit with some bad news, the 😮 emoji can encapsulate your feelings about the situation. In that context, the 😮 expresses shocked disappointment, and worry.
    • “Wait, we have a quiz today? 😮 I forgot to study!”
    • “You quit your job? 😮 I thought I was gonna see you today! What happened?”
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Some include the 😮 emoji in a text when they’re expressing mock surprise (as opposed to genuine shock). Rather than saying, “I’m not surprised,” someone might send the 😮 emoji ironically instead.
    • You: “Did you hear? Jen and Skyler are dating!”
    • Them: “Who could’ve guessed? 😮 Definitely not us in the group chat for the last 5 days, lol!”
    5. Advertisement
Section 2 of 4:

Using the 😮 Emoji

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/66\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/66\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When someone genuinely impresses you, let them know. Say “Wow!” with the 😮 emoji, and send along a quick message about how amazed or inspired you feel. It might just make someone’s day! [3]
    • “This is my face still thinking about how you won EVERY game we played tonight. 😮”
    • “Just heard that you got into all of your dream schools!! 😮 Bravo!”
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fd\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/fd\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Sometimes you’ll get a message or see a post on social media that’s so shocking it leaves your jaw hanging wide open. Follow up with the 😮 emoji to show the recipient your surprise. In fact, it's a great emoji to use regardless of how surprised you are! [4]
    • “Is that true?? 😮 Okay, I need you to explain what happened NOW.”
    • “I was today years old when I learned that avocado is a fruit, not a vegetable. 😮”
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7c\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7c\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-7.jpg\/v4-728px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When you get bad news, it’s natural to be a little alarmed and reflect that panic in your response. Add the 😮 emoji to your text; it helps illustrate your feelings, so the recipient can easily interpret your reaction and reply accordingly.
    • Them: “So, Carol told me she’s upset with you. What’s going on there?”
    • You: “I had no idea she felt that way. That's awful. 😮 Did she say why?”
    • You can also react to bad news on social media with it—like retweeting an article and adding a 😮 emoji to show your shock and dismay.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a8\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a8\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The 😮 is a good choice when you want to be slightly ironic but not totally dismissive. Send it to convey mock surprise to someone. Remember, sarcasm is harder to spot over text, so it’s best to save it for friends who already know your texting style!
    • Them: “I feel like this isn’t such a great idea actually… 🤨”
    • You: “No, really? 😮”
    5. Advertisement
Section 3 of 4:

Responding to the 😮 Emoji

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/41\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/41\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If someone praises you using 😮 emoji, it’s only natural to be grateful for the compliment. Let them know that their words are much appreciated—and, if you like, use a happy emoji like the 😊 (blushing smile) or the ❤️ (red heart).
    • Them: “Whoa, that drawing is insane! 😮 You’re so talented.”
    • You: “Thank you! 😊 I drew it with you in mind, so I’m glad you liked it!”
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ef\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ef\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When you send a message conveying shocking news, the recipient might respond by saying something like “What?!” or “Wait, really?” In those cases, send a follow-up text explaining the news in a little more detail for them.
    • You: “So…Beth quit today.”
    • Them: “WHAT? 😮”
    • You: “Yeah, it was kind of crazy! Wanna call me? I can tell you the whole story. 😉”
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1b\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1b\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-11.jpg\/v4-728px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Sometimes bad news can send people into a tailspin, even if you weren’t trying to alarm them. When someone sends the 😮 emoji in reaction to bad news and you can tell they’re genuinely a little worried or afraid, do your best to soothe them or talk through the issue until they feel better.
    • You: “Just FYI, there’s a pop quiz in science class today!”
    • Them: “Oh no. I’m so behind, I’ll never pass it! 😣😭”
    • You: “Hey, no worries! I can help. Wanna do a quick study session at lunch?”
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b4\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b4\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-12.jpg\/v4-728px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When someone texts you with the 😮 emoji and lots of sarcastic surprise, the easiest way to respond is to laugh off the joke or play along with it by sending a sarcastic message in return. Show the recipient that you’re a good sport, and you get what they’re trying to say!
    • You: “I can’t wait for the next Batman movie!”
    • Them: “Oh, you like Batman? 😮 I had no idea.”
    • You: “Lol, yeah, you know me, I like to be subtle about my interests. 😂”
    5. Advertisement
Section 4 of 4:

Common Emojis to Pair with 😮

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d3\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d3\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-13.jpg\/v4-728px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Everyone slips up and loses something now and again, whether it’s their house keys or their favorite shirt. When you want to express dismay and confusion over losing something, pair the 😮 emoji with whichever emoji best depicts the object you lost. For example:
    • 😮📖 = Where’s my book?
    • 😮🎧 = Where are my headphones?
    • 😮🔑 = Where are my keys?
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-14.jpg\/v4-460px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-14.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-14.jpg\/v4-728px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-14.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Sometimes it’s fun to tell a story with your emojis and spell out a phrase for the recipient to translate. When you want to be a little fun and flirty, write, “😮​💨​👄,” to convey that you’re sending them a kiss through the message.
    • “Wish you were here! 😮​💨​👄”
    • “Sending you kisses today! 😮​💨​👄”
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/45\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-15.jpg\/v4-460px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-15.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/45\/Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-15.jpg\/v4-728px-Open-Mouth-Emoji-Step-15.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When you want the recipient to know that you’re sending an important, must-read text (even if you’re just sharing a juicy piece of gossip or joking around), add 😮📣​🎤 to the message. The 📣 (megaphone) and ​🎤 (microphone) emojis imply that you’re broadcasting a text or social media announcement loudly, while the 😮 emoji adds urgency.
    • “BREAKING NEWS! 😮📣​🎤 …I miss you.”
    • Omg! 😮📣​🎤 You’ll never guess what my mom told me today!”
    4. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      What Emojis Mean Sex?
      What Does the 🤍 White Heart Emoji Mean?
      The Top Emojis Guys Use when They Like or Love You
      The Top Emojis a Girl Will Use if She Likes You
      What Do All the Different Hand Emojis Mean?
      What XD Really Means in the Digital World
      What Does the 💚 Green Heart Emoji Mean?
      What Does the Melted Face Emoji 🫠 Mean?
      What Does the 🤗 (Hugging Face) Emoji Mean?
      What Does the 👅 Tongue Emoji Mean?
      What Does the 🙌🙏 Two Hands Emoji Mean?
      What Does the 😘💋 Kiss Emoji Mean?
      What Does the 🩵 (Light Blue Heart) Emoji Mean?
      What Does the 🥰 Smiling Face with Hearts Emoji Mean?
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ ​​ https://symbl.cc/en/emoji/smileys-and-emotion/
      2. ↑ https://hyemoji.com/Face%20With%20Open%20Mouth
      3. ↑ https://emojings.com/face-with-open-mouth/
      4. ↑ https://emojings.com/face-with-open-mouth/

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 85,724 times.

      Is this article up to date?

      Advertisement