What Does the 😈 Devil Emoji Mean?

Co-authored by Madeleine Criglow

Last Updated: May 17, 2024 Fact Checked

Did someone just send you a message with the 😈 (devil) emoji? This emoji, officially known as the smiling face with horns, is mysterious, intriguing, and even a little evil. If you're wondering what this emoji's devilish grin actually means, we're here to help. Read on to learn everything you need to know, including its meaning, how to use it yourself, and if there are any other emojis like it.

The 😈 Devil Emoji At a Glance

The 😈 devil emoji signals that someone is being sly, naughty, or mischievous. It's used to show a playful, wily tone, like when someone breaks the rules or does something they shouldn't, even if it's totally harmless.

Section 1 of 4:

😈 (devil) Emoji Meanings

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The 😈 (devil) emoji means someone is being mischievous. People often use this emoji to let someone know they did or said something a little naughty (usually in a harmless way). Someone might add it to a message about breaking the rules, getting away with something, or even pranking someone.^{[1]
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- "Called out of work today...Wanna hangout? 😈"
- "I know we're not supposed to, but I love giving my favorite customers my employee discount. 😈"
- "Maybe this is immature, but what if we prank called Mandy? 😈"
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The 😈 (devil) emoji can be used for sexual innuendo. Someone may add this emoji to a message to reveal their risque intentions, and it's often included in the list of popular sexting emojis. If a new fling sends you a Snapchat with this emoji, for example, they're likely trying to show off their naughty side.^{[2]
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- "Do you like my outfit? 😈"
- "Can't stop thinking about you. Can I see you tonight? 😈"
- "You're hot as hell! 😈"
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The 😈 (devil) emoji also represents an evil character or the actual devil. If someone is talking about this subject or watching a scary movie with a satanic monster, they may add this emoji for extra flair. The emoji is popular during Halloween especially due to its spooky and sinister vibe.^{[3]
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- "You'll never guess my Halloween costume...😈"
- "Wanna watch The Omen with me tonight? 😈"
- "I was up late reading folklore about Satan. Scary stuff! 😈"

Section 2 of 4:

How to Use the 😈 (devil) Emoji

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Use the 😈 (devil) emoji when you break the rules. This emoji is perfect to describe your most rebellious behavior. It'll add a fun, mischievous feel to your message!
- "I'm totally breaking the dress code at school today 😈"
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Add the 😈 (devil) emoji when you get away with something. If you did something "bad" and didn't get in trouble, go ahead and throw in the purple devil emoji. Everyone misbehaves every now and then, and it'll make your message a little more playful.^{[4]
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- "I skipped class today and no one even noticed. 😈"
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Opt for the 😈 (devil) emoji when you prank someone. Are you a trickster with some big plans? In that case, add in the purple devil emoji to own your wicked intentions.
- "Just thought of the wildest April Fool's prank...😈"
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Throw in the 😈 (devil) emoji when you send a flirty text. If you're messaging with someone on Snapchat or texting a new person, add the emoji to test the waters and show your flirtier side. It'll give your message a more suggestive tone.^{[5]
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- "You're so hot 😈"
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Choose the 😈 (devil) emoji when you want to sext. If your trying to steer the conversation in a more risque direction, this emoji is the perfect option. It'll imply your X-rated intentions without having to say them directly.
- "What do you think we'll do when we're reunited 😈?"
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Pair the 😈 (devil) emoji with a sexy selfie. Next time you send someone a cute photo, include a caption with this suggestive emoji. It'll make your caption a little flirtier, and will encourage the recipient to send a flirtatious message in return.
- "Wore this outfit just for you 😈."
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Use the 😈 (devil) emoji when you've got spooky plans. If you've got anything scary on the agenda (like a visit to a haunted house or a nighttime trip to the corn maze), this emoji is a great choice. It'll add a playful, ghoulish touch.^{[6]
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- "I'm planning a horror movie marathon this weekend 😈."
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Add the 😈 (devil) emoji when you wish someone a happy Halloween. The purple devil is perfect for the most frightening holiday of the year. If you'd like to add a sinister feel to your Halloween greetings, go ahead and include it in your message.
- "Happy Halloween! 😈"

Section 3 of 4:

How to Respond to the 😈 (devil) Emoji

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Congratulate someone for getting away with something. If someone clues you in on something risky or rebellious they did, give them props for being a true rebel.^{[7]
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- Them: "Just told off my professor. 😈"
- You: "Nice! That takes guts."
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Send a flirty text of your own. Whenever someone is hitting on you over Snapchat or sending you suggestive texts, message them something saucy in return (if you're into it).
- Them: "You're too cute. 😈"
- You: "You're not so bad yourself. ❤️‍🔥"
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Show your shared enthusiasm about a spooky topic. If someone is messaging you about something frightening, from Halloween to horror films, show your interest in the subject. You might consider adding an eerie emoji to your reply or asking a question to learn more.
- Them: "I just thought of the perfect Halloween plans. 😈"
- You: "OMG tell me more! 👻"

Section 4 of 4:

Other Devilish Emojis

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Try other monsters or scary emojis for a similar effect. These may be a little less popular than the smiling face with horns, but they can add a similarly mischievous vibe to your message. Some of them are downright scary! Here are a few to choose from:
- 👿 - Angry Face with Horns (also known as the imp emoji)
- 👹 - Ogre (sometimes mistaken for a red devil)
- 👺 - Goblin
- 👾 - Alien Monster

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