What is owo?

owo is an internet slang term and emoticon, typically used in text-based communication. It's often associated with internet subcultures like furries and online gaming communities, but its use has spread more widely.

  • Meaning and Usage: owo doesn't have a single, definitive meaning. It is often used to express cuteness, happiness, surprise, or excitement. It can also be used sarcastically or ironically. The specific interpretation depends heavily on context and the tone of the conversation. It is usually paired with other emoticons.

  • Origin: The exact origin of owo is unclear, but it's believed to have emerged online sometime in the late 2000s or early 2010s. Its rise in popularity seems correlated with the increasing popularity of furry%20fandom and similar online communities.

  • Variations: owo has several variations, including:

    • uwu: A similar expression, often considered even cuter or more exaggerated than owo.
    • (owo): Enclosing the expression in parentheses.
    • "notices bulge owo what's this?": A bait post meme, not usually actually sexual, but intended to provoke outrage or amusement.
  • Reception: While owo is common and accepted in certain online spaces, it can be considered annoying, childish, or cringeworthy by others. Its use is highly dependent on the audience and the situation. Using it inappropriately can sometimes be negatively perceived. The appropriateness is dependent on the social%20context.