Emoji-Text Sentiment Analysis: A Keyword and Thematic Analysis of Conceptual Evolution and Emerging Trends (2008-2024)

The integration of emojis with textual content in digital communication has transformed sentiment analysis, necessitating advanced methodologies to decode nuanced emotions in hybrid data. This study presents a comprehensive keyword and thematic analysis of 487 publications (2008-2024) on emoji-text sentiment classification, with 43.9% of research rooted in computer science. Data were systematically retrieved from IEEE, Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCO using predefined search queries. Collaboration networks exhibit strong thematic evolution, progressing from basic sentiment analysis to specialized domains like emotion detection and socio-cultural implications of digital communication. Methodologically, the integration of keywords and R-based bibliometric tools provided granular insights into thematic structures. These results establish a strategic framework for future research, emphasizing the interdisciplinary convergence of computational techniques and socio-linguistic studies in emoji-text sentiment analysis.