smiley
n. countable A2 Elementary US //ˈsmaɪɫi// UK //smˈaɪli// smi·ley
n. a small picture of a smiling face that you use in messages to show you are happy or joking. It is a simple way to share a friendly feeling online.
n. a graphic representation of a smiling face, typically used in digital communication to convey happiness or goodwill. Often used as a synonym for a basic emoji or emoticon.
She sent me a smiley after I told the joke.
I usually add a smiley to my text messages so people know I am being friendly and not serious.
While early digital communication relied on text-based emoticons, the modern smiley has evolved into a diverse range of colorful icons that can express subtle shifts in tone and intent.
Usage
Commonly used in informal digital contexts; plural form is 'smileys'.