⏏️
Eject Button
ee-JEKT BUH-tuhn
Definitions
1
Technology · Control
uncommon
A symbol representing the eject button found on media players and devices, used to remove physical media like CDs, DVDs, or cassettes.
Primarily used in technical contexts or when discussing media devices.
Finally found the ⏏️ button on this old DVD player!
Text message
Increasingly unfamiliar to younger generations as physical media becomes obsolete.
2
Technology · Computing
rare
Used metaphorically to indicate leaving a situation, removing oneself, or exiting an uncomfortable conversation.
Occasionally used humorously to suggest wanting to escape or exit.
This meeting is so boring, I wish I could just ⏏️
Private message
This metaphorical usage emerged as digital natives applied tech interface language to social situations.
Evolution Timeline
2015
Added to Unicode 7.0 as a standardized symbol for media player controls.
Standardization of media control symbols across digital interfaces.
2020
Began declining in recognition as physical media players became less common in everyday devices.
Shift to streaming services and digital-only media consumption.
Cultural Context
The eject symbol represents a technology that's becoming obsolete as streaming and digital downloads replace physical media.
Many Gen Z users may never have used physical media players regularly, making this symbol increasingly obscure.
Regional Variations
United States
More commonly recognized due to longer persistence of physical media players in homes and vehicles.
Generational Usage
Gen_X: Highly familiar from extensive use of physical media devices throughout adulthood.
Gen_Z: Limited recognition; often unfamiliar with physical media players that use this button.
Older: Recognize from various media players but may not use the emoji version in digital communication.
Millennials: Generally recognize from CD/DVD players; some use metaphorically for leaving situations.
Common Combinations
⏏️👋
Indicating departure or leaving a situation.
Used to signal exiting a conversation or group chat.
⏏️🎮
Referring to ejecting a game disc from a console.
Used by gamers discussing physical game media.