smiley

¹

[ smahy-lee ]

noun

, plural smil·eys.

1. a digital icon, a sequence of keyboard symbols, or a handwritten or printed equivalent, that serves to represent a facial expression, as :‐) for a smiling face or ;‐) for a winking face. Compare emoticon.
2. Usually smile face. a drawing of a face consisting of a usually yellow circle with an upturned curve for a smile and two dots for eyes.

adjective

1. cheerful; smiling.

Smiley

²

[ smahy-lee ]

noun

1. Jane, born 1949, U.S. novelist.

smiley

/ ˈsmaɪlɪ /

adjective

1. given to smiling; cheerful
2. depicting a smile

   a smiley badge

noun

1. any of a group of symbols depicting a smile, or other facial expression, used in electronic mail

Word History and Origins

Origin of smiley¹

1985–90

Example Sentences

Models purposefully walked down the runway in flowing suits of crushed velvet and satin, matching leather mini-shorts and jackets, sequined hot pants and tank top sets in yellow smiley graphics and graffiti print.

From Los Angeles Times

Indeed, many fans remember him as a smiley singer of feel-good tunes – a far cry from the horrifically dark image painted of his final moments.

From BBC

In 2020, a Singaporean activist who had long campaigned for freedom of speech was arrested for posing with a placard of a smiley face.

From BBC

"Prayer hands and the really smiley face that goes up to your eyes."

From BBC

Governments are not judged by smiley photo opportunities alone.

From BBC