Also, grab and paste some classic bear emoticons
Bears—so irresistibly charming and totally lovable! But when you receive a bear emoji, what does it mean? Are they calling you cute and snuggly, or is there more to it? In this guide, we’ve broken down the meanings and uses of the various bear emojis. Keep reading to discover the true significance of the 🐻 (bear), 🧸 (teddy bear), 🐼 (panda), 🐨 (koala), and 🐻❄️ (polar bear) emojis!
Understanding Bear Emoji MeaningsThe 🐻 bear emoji is most frequently used to represent wildlife and the great outdoors. It's commonly seen when discussing brown bears or nature encounters. In the LGBTQ+ community, however, the 🐻 emoji is a symbol for larger, hairier men and is often used to express sexual identity.
How to Use Bear EmojisWhat does the bear 🐻 emoji symbolize?

The 🐻 emoji is often used to refer to bears or wildlife in general. This cute representation of a brown bear, with its round nose, chubby cheeks, and affectionate eyes, brings to mind nature and conservation efforts. The brown bear, especially tied to Smokey Bear, has been a symbol for wildfire prevention and wildlife preservation. As a result, this emoji is frequently paired with other nature emojis when discussing wildlife or outdoor adventures.
- “Weekend in the wild? Sounds perfect. 🐻🌲☀️”
- “Stay safe tonight! If you're making s’mores, remember Smokey’s advice 🐻😉”

In the LGBTQ+ community, the 🐻 emoji represents a larger, hairier gay man. The term “Bear” in this context refers to gay men who embrace their burly, larger bodies and noticeable body hair. While they are often more masculine, this is a broad stereotype. This emoji is commonly used alongside pronouns or a pride flag to express someone's identity.
- “He/him/they 🐻🏳️🌈”
- “I’m looking for a 🐻 who knows how to take care of me, if you catch my drift 🤭👬”
What does the teddy bear 🧸 emoji mean?

The 🧸 emoji is a representation of toys and childhood. With its cute, smiling face, this emoji is a perfect depiction of a beloved childhood toy. It's often used alongside other emojis that evoke memories of youth, fun, and innocence.
- “Don't forget to bring your old toys to the charity event tonight! 🏎️🧸⚽🚂”
- “I remember when Davie was so little 🥹 He took his 🧸 everywhere!”

The 🧸 emoji is also a symbol of affection from a romantic partner or crush. When you think about Valentine’s Day, what's the first thing that comes to mind? We bet hearts and teddy bears are high on that list! Teddy bears are known for symbolizing love, and the 🧸 emoji follows suit—especially when it’s sent by someone special. A partner or crush might send this along with other sweet emojis to express their fondness.
- “Happy Valentine’s Day, my love 🧸❤️”
- “Have I ever told you how cute you are? 🧸”
What does the panda bear 🐼 emoji stand for?

The 🐼 emoji symbolizes all things related to China. With its round face, tiny nose, and striking black eyes, who can resist the charm of a panda? This emoji perfectly captures the lovable nature of the panda bear and is often used when talking about Chinese culture, pandas themselves, or anything irresistibly cute.
- “One day, I’ll visit China and see 🐼 in person 🇨🇳”
- “Did you check out that adorable video I sent you? SO CUTE 🐼😍”
What does the koala bear 🐨 emoji signify?

The 🐨 emoji represents Australia and its iconic wildlife. This precious emoji is a fantastic representation of koalas, one of Australia’s most beloved animals! Known for its fluffy ears, black nose, and soft gray fur, the 🐨 emoji is frequently used when talking about Australia, nature, or anything cute and cuddly.
- “Guess where we’re headed? 🐨🇦🇺🦘”
- “I think 🐨 are my favorite animals! Look at that adorable face 🥹”
What does the 🐻❄️ (bear + snowflake) combination signify?

🐻❄️ (bear + snowflake) is the ZWJ sequence for the polar bear 🐻❄️ emoji. When you combine the ❄️ emoji with a 🐻 emoji, it resembles a white polar bear. While there is a dedicated polar bear emoji on most devices, the specific ZWJ Sequence to display a polar bear 🐻❄️ is 🐻❄️ (bear + snowflake). So, if someone sends you 🐻❄️, they’re likely referring to a polar bear or trying to convey that image.
- “I’m so excited to see 🐻❄️ at the zoo!”
- “Have you watched that 🐻❄️ documentary? It’s mind-blowing! 🤯”
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A ZWJ Sequence is a combination of multiple emojis that create a single emoji.
Bear Emoticons

Use these bear emoticons for a retro, text-based style. Not into emojis? No problem! There are still plenty of charming ways to share a bear with your friends via text. Take a look at these creative bear emoticons, pick one you like, and paste it into your message:
- ┏ʕ •ᴥ•┛
- ʕ ◕ᴥ◕ ʔ
- ᵔᴥᵔ
- \ʕ •ᴥ•┛/
- ʕ ● ᴥ ●ʔ
- ʕ •ₒ• ʔ
- ʕ – ᴥ – ʔ
- ฅ՞•ﻌ•՞ฅ
- ʕ •ᴥ•ʔ
- ˙✧˖°ʕ•ﻌ•ʔᡣ𐭩⋆。˚
- ʢᴗ.ᴗʡᶻ