Usernames and identifiers
_ is common in usernames, handles, file names, and internal identifiers when a visible separator is needed without a full space.
_
Underscore
U+005F
_
As a plain text character, the _ underscore is most useful for usernames, code variables, word separators where quick compatibility matters.
Usernames, code, and low-profile separators.
Where people actually use this symbol
Code and formatting
_ also matters in code, markdown-like formatting, and low-profile separators where the line should stay quiet and technical.
Where it works better than emoji
_ beats emoji when the line needs an exact address, handle, or mention marker. Emoji can decorate this idea, but they cannot replace the actual character people need to type or copy.
Alternative symbols to compare
@
ASCII symbols
U+0040
Email addresses, @mentions, and social handles.
#
ASCII symbols
U+0023
Hashtags, topic labels, and compact numbering.
$
ASCII symbols
U+0024
Prices, budgets, and finance copy.
%
ASCII symbols
U+0025
Percentages, discounts, ratios, and sale copy.
&
ASCII symbols
U+0026
Brand names, pairings, and title styling.
*
ASCII symbols
U+002A
Footnotes, emphasis, wildcards, and note markers.
Related emoji
🖥️
objects
desktop computer
computer
A desktop computer, useful for office setups, gaming rigs, design work, and stationary computing rather than portable use.
computerdesktopmonitor
⌨️
objects
keyboard
computer
A keyboard, useful for typing, computers, writing, coding, and the physical act of inputting text or commands.
computer
⚙️
objects
gear
tools
A gear, often used for settings, machinery, process, systems, and the idea of functional internal mechanics.
cogcogwheeltool
Symbol details
- Category
- ASCII Symbols
- Unicode
- U+005F
- HTML
- _
- ASCII
- Yes