instant messaging

noun

: a means or system for transmitting electronic messages instantly
instant message noun or verb

Examples of instant messaging in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
At its peak, AOL’s subscriber base soared into the tens of millions, each discovering the transformative power of email, instant messaging and online communities. Tim Bajarin, Forbes.com, 11 Aug. 2025 Popular examples include Signal, a free and open source instant messaging service, and Proton Mail, an encrypted email service. Aarushi Bhandari, The Conversation, 14 July 2025 The reality is that in spite of digital communication channels like email, instant messaging apps, and more, physical mail remains a critical component of business operations. Chris Gallagher, USA Today, 28 Mar. 2025 Other than that, Signal – which does require a telephone number to create an account – is similar in concept to any other preferred instant messaging service smartphone users may have, including Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp. Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 25 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for instant messaging

Word History

First Known Use

1995, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of instant messaging was in 1995

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Instant messaging.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/instant%20messaging. Accessed 5 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

instant messaging

noun
instant mes·​sag·​ing
-ˈme-sə-jiŋ
: a means or system for transmitting electronic messages instantly
instant message noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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