Question

(blank) are little, character-based graphics used to display emotion in an electronic message.

Explanation:

Analyze the definition

The question asks for a term describing "little, character-based graphics used to display emotion in an electronic message."

Identify key characteristics

The key characteristics are:

• "Character-based": constructed using standard keyboard characters (like punctuation, letters, and numbers).
• "Display emotion": used to convey facial expressions or feelings.
• "Electronic message": used in emails, texts, or online chats.

Determine the correct term

While "emojis" are actual image files or pictographs, "emoticons" (a blend of "emotion" and "icon") specifically refer to the text- or character-based representations of facial expressions (such as :-) or ;-P). Therefore, "Emoticons" is the correct term.

Answer:

<blank>Emoticons</blank> are little, character-based graphics used to display emotion in an electronic message.