Before You Hit Send on That Text: What Every Heart Color Emoji Really Means
Not all heart emojis say the same thing. From red to yellow and beyond, each color carries its own message — especially on Valentine’s Day.
It’s February 14, which means Valentine’s Day is here. Couples may be heading out to celebrate, single people may be catching up with friends, and for anyone with a crush, today is the perfect time to share how they feel. At a time when the whole world seems to be exchanging sweet nothings, every message you send feels especially meaningful. And if you love using emoji, did you know that each heart color carries a different meaning? Here’s what every shade is really trying to say.
Red Heart
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The classic symbol of love, the red heart conveys passion and romance. Beyond romantic relationships, it can also express the deep, warm affection shared among friends and family.
Yellow Heart
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In romance, the yellow heart represents pure, sincere feelings. It can also convey the beauty and joy of life.
Green Heart
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If you’ve argued with your partner, perhaps send them a green heart. It can signal relationship troubles or jealousy, while also conveying a desire to make up. Overseas, the green heart is often associated with being close to nature and can symbolize a certain lifestyle.
Purple Heart
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The purple heart is generally better suited to family and friends. It symbolizes tolerance, understanding, and empathy, conveying care and protection. It can also represent fashion appeal and wealth.
Blue Heart
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With its calm, still-water feel, blue naturally evokes peace and tranquility. The blue heart represents platonic love: a pure form of romance that transcends the physical and seeks a deeper spiritual connection. It symbolizes loyalty and trust, and can also convey a passion for something in particular.
Orange Heart
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If your crush sends you this one, your chances may not be especially high. The orange heart can express admiration or only half-formed love, and may even mean they simply want to remain friends.
Black Heart
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Beating Heart
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This one expresses the hope of staying in close, passionate contact with someone. It is a strong, heartfelt way to say, “I love you.”
Growing Heart
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The growing heart can carry a few meanings. It may represent love between two people becoming stronger, or symbolize a relationship’s growth and deepening.
Heart Exclamation
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Less commonly used than the single-color hearts above, the heart exclamation conveys genuine feelings for a person, thing, or event, and affection that comes straight from the heart.