🩲
Briefs
brēfs
Definitions
1
Clothing · Underwear
Common
A form-fitting underwear or swimwear garment that covers the pelvic area but not the thighs, typically worn by men.
Used in casual conversations about clothing, swimming, or beach activities. Often used humorously in social media contexts.
Packed my 🩲 for the beach trip tomorrow!
Personal message
When you accidentally buy 🩲 instead of regular swim shorts 😅
Social media caption
In Western cultures, often associated with competitive swimming or as a stereotypical European-style swimwear choice.
2
Sports · Swimming
Common
Competitive swimming attire designed for minimal drag in water, typically worn by male swimmers in competitions.
Used when discussing swimming competitions, athletic performance, or swim team activities.
First day of swim team and I forgot my 🩲 at home 🤦♂️
Text message
Often called 'Speedos' in many English-speaking countries after the popular brand name.
Evolution Timeline
2020
Introduced in Unicode 13.0 as part of expanded clothing and accessory emoji set.
Growing demand for more diverse clothing representation in emoji.
Cultural Context
In Australia, men's briefs-style swimwear is colloquially called 'budgie smugglers,' while Americans typically use the brand name 'Speedos' regardless of actual brand.
Represents a cultural divide between European and American beach attire norms, with Europeans generally more accepting of brief-style swimwear for men.
In competitive swimming, this style is preferred for reduced drag and improved performance, highlighting function over fashion or modesty concerns.
Regional Variations
Australia
Often called 'budgie smugglers' in slang. Common swimwear for competitive swimming and lifeguards.
United Kingdom
Commonly called 'swimming trunks' or 'Speedos'. More widely accepted as normal swimwear than in the US.
United States
Often called 'Speedos' regardless of brand. Generally viewed as less common for casual beachwear compared to swim trunks.
Generational Usage
Gen_X: Straightforward usage for swimming references with less emotional or humorous connotations.
Gen_Z: Often used ironically or for humor in social media posts. Sometimes referenced in 'European vs American' cultural memes.
Older: Primarily used literally to refer to swimwear or underwear in practical contexts.
Millennials: Used practically when discussing swimming or beach activities, occasionally with self-deprecating humor.
Common Combinations
🩲🏊
Competitive swimming or swim practice.
Used when discussing swimming sports or training sessions.
🩲😬
Embarrassment or discomfort about wearing briefs.
Reflects Western discomfort with revealing swimwear, especially in the US.
🩲🏖️
Beach day or vacation swimwear.
Used when packing or preparing for beach trips.