What do you call it?

[Lawai]

In some cartoons, the expression "&x?"@3+^%!" is used. I understand there is a name for this expression. Can anyone help?

 

[emsr2d2]

In some cartoons, the expression "&x?"@3+^%!" is used. I understand there is a name for this expression. Can anyone help?

I'm fairly sure it's not the same set of symbols each time, but usually such things are used in place of what would, in a more adult situation, be swear words (cussing).

If a very heavy rock falls on the foot of a cartoon character, they can't shout out the same expletives that real people probably would in such a situation, so the suggestion that the character is shouting a rude version of "Ouch. That really hurt" is shown by using symbols.

I don't know a specific name for the usage.