π
CL Button
see-el button
Definitions
1
Technology Β· Interface
uncommon
A red square button with white 'CL' letters, originating from Japanese interfaces meaning 'clear'. Used to indicate clearing text, resetting fields, or removing content.
Primarily used in technical contexts or when discussing interface actions. Rarely used in casual conversation.
Press π to reset the form and start over.
App instructions
Derived from Japanese electronic interfaces where 'CL' commonly indicates a clear function on calculators and other devices.
2
Slang Β· Internet
rare
Sometimes used as shorthand for 'clean' in internet slang, particularly in gaming communities discussing 'clean plays' or 'clean shots'.
This usage is niche and primarily found in gaming communities or social media.
That headshot was π bro!
Gaming chat
Represents the repurposing of technical symbols for slang communication, common in digital culture.
Evolution Timeline
2010
Introduced as part of Unicode 6.0 as one of the 'enclosed alphanumeric supplement' symbols.
Increasing internationalization of emoji sets to include Japanese interface elements.
Cultural Context
Part of a set of Japanese-originated button symbols in Unicode that represent common interface elements found on electronic devices and software.
Despite being an English abbreviation ('CL' for 'clear'), this symbol originated in Japanese interfaces and was adopted internationally through Unicode.
Regional Variations
United States
Rarely used outside of technical documentation or interface descriptions.
Generational Usage
Gen_X: May recognize from calculator interfaces and early digital devices where 'CL' was a common button.
Gen_Z: Rarely used except by those in technical fields or occasionally as gaming slang for 'clean'.
Older: Limited recognition, mainly by those with technical backgrounds or experience with Japanese electronics.
Millennials: Recognized primarily by those familiar with interface design or Japanese electronics.
Common Combinations
πβ‘οΈ
Instructions to clear or reset something
Commonly used in technical guides or app instructions
πβ
Clear and confirm/submit
Used in explaining two-step interface processes