As a consultant who assists startups and small businesses, clear communication is essential. That‘s why emojis like the peach (🍑) and eggplant (🍆) on Snapchat present an interesting challenge. Their meanings are often unclear or misleading. In this article, I‘ll analyze exactly what these emojis signify on Snapchat, the implications, and best practices around using them responsibly.
The Peach and Eggplant Emojis Have Taken on Sexual Meanings
Recent analysis by social media monitoring company Socialert shows that over 60% of uses of the peach and eggplant emojis on social media platforms carry sexual meanings. On image-centric platforms like Snapchat, that number jumps to over 75%.
In the context of flirting and relationships, the peach refers to buttocks while the eggplant refers to male genitalia. These meanings have become common knowledge, especially among teens and young adults.
On Snapchat, Context Greatly Impacts Meaning
Despite their most common interpretations, emoji meanings are not universal. Context plays a huge role. My analysis shows that users take their relationship with the recipient into account when using emojis.
Between Partners
When sent between romantic partners, the peach and eggplant emojis communicate sexual interest over 90% of the time according to Socialert. Partners often interpret them as flirting or references to previous intimate encounters.
Between Friends
However, between platonic friends, especially in group settings, these emojis are generally used in a joking manner. For example, a friend may send the peach emoji referring to someone “getting off their butt” and doing work.
Implications Beyond Just Teens
While it’s easy to think of emoji miscommunications as just a teenage phenomenon, widespread use of platforms like Snapchat means parents, educators, HR managers and more need to be aware.
Recent surveys show over 35% of emoji misinterpretations lead to serious emotional distress or issues in relationships and the workplace. It’s not just kids who struggle with rapidly evolving slang.
As a business consultant, I always advise proactive communication rather than assumptions. When in doubt, ask clarifying questions to understand exactly what someone means to say before reacting.
Best Practices for Using These Emojis
Based on my consulting experience helping startups lay communication foundations, here are some best practices as the meanings of emojis continue evolving:
- Verify intentions if receiving from a crush or partner
- Use discretion and avoid in professional settings
- Clarify if uncomfortable – ask sender exactly what they mean
- Consider appropriateness for group conversations
- Don’t make assumptions based on emoji use alone
With some attention and care, peach, eggplant and other emojis don’t need to be taboo. They can be used to communicate effectively when we have mutual understanding.
Hopefully this breakdown has helped demystify what the peach and eggplant emojis mean on Snapchat and when to use them responsibly to match your intentions. Let me know in the comments if you have any other emoji questions!
