〰️
Wavy Dash
WAY-vee dash
Definitions
1
Punctuation · Symbol
uncommon
A wavy horizontal line used to indicate vibration, sound waves, or a decorative element. Often represents elongation of sounds or voices in digital communication.
Commonly used to show ongoing sounds, musical notes, or as a decorative divider in casual messages.
The music was so relaxing 〰️ I fell asleep immediately.
Text message
Helloooo〰️ is anyone there?
Social media comment
In digital communication, often represents vocal elongation or vibration, particularly in manga/anime contexts.
2
Design · Decoration
rare
A decorative element used to create visual separation between text sections or as an aesthetic embellishment in digital content.
Often repeated multiple times to create borders or dividers in casual digital communication.
〰️〰️〰️ TODAY'S AGENDA 〰️〰️〰️
Social media post
Functions similarly to horizontal rules in formatting, but with a more playful, informal aesthetic.
Evolution Timeline
2010
Gained popularity in Western digital communication through anime and manga fan communities.
Increasing global popularity of Japanese pop culture and emoticons.
Cultural Context
In Japanese typography, the wavy dash represents elongated sounds in manga and anime, which influenced its adoption in global digital communication.
Despite being available in Unicode since 1993, it remains relatively uncommon in Western digital communication compared to other punctuation marks.
Regional Variations
Japan
More commonly used in Japanese digital communication, particularly in manga, anime, and related fan communities.
Generational Usage
Gen_X: Rarely used except by those familiar with Japanese digital culture.
Gen_Z: Occasionally used in aesthetic formatting for social media posts or to indicate vibey or chill content.
Older: Very low recognition and usage, may be confused with tilde or other punctuation.
Millennials: Limited usage, primarily among anime/manga fans or for decorative text formatting.
Common Combinations
〰️🎵
Musical sounds or singing voice
Represents audio waves or vibration, often for music or singing contexts.
〰️💭
Trailing thoughts or daydreaming
Indicates a dreamy state or wandering thoughts.