🌡️
Thermometer
thər-ˈmä-mə-tər
Definitions
1
Weather · Measurement
Common
A device that measures temperature, used to indicate hot or cold weather conditions in forecasts, climate discussions, or environmental updates.
Frequently used in weather-related messages, climate discussions, and seasonal comments.
It's going to be 95°F tomorrow 🌡️ Stay hydrated!
Weather forecast message
Climate change is real 🌡️ The data shows consistent temperature increases over decades.
Environmental discussion
Often appears in weather apps and forecasts as a universal symbol for temperature measurement.
2
Health · Medical
Common
Represents body temperature measurement, typically used to indicate fever, illness, or health monitoring.
Common in health-related messages about illness, recovery, or medical check-ups.
Staying home today 🌡️ 101°F. This flu is terrible.
Personal health update
Don't forget to pack a 🌡️ in your travel first aid kit!
Travel preparation advice
Universal symbol in medical contexts, though digital communication has expanded its use beyond clinical settings.
Cultural Context
Digital thermometer emoji replaced traditional mercury thermometers in usage as environmental concerns about mercury grew and digital devices became standard.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, this emoji saw increased usage as temperature checks became routine and fever monitoring was emphasized in public health messaging.
Regional Variations
United Kingdom
Commonly references Celsius scale with °C suffix, though older generations may still use Fahrenheit for body temperature.
United States
Commonly references Fahrenheit scale with °F suffix in both weather and health contexts.
Generational Usage
Gen_X: Primarily used in practical contexts like weather forecasts, fever reporting, or cooking references.
Gen_Z: Used casually in contexts beyond literal temperature, sometimes to indicate something is 'hot' in slang terms or trending.
Older: Limited usage, primarily in weather discussions or health updates with family members.
Millennials: Commonly used for weather updates and health status on social media and messaging apps.
Common Combinations
🌡️🔥
Extreme heat or high temperature, often indicating a heat wave or fever
Common during summer months in weather reports or when describing illness
🌡️❄️
Temperature extremes or contrast between hot and cold
Used in climate discussions or seasonal transitions
🌡️😷
Fever associated with illness, often indicating someone is sick with flu or virus
Became especially common during COVID-19 pandemic for symptom reporting