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.
Define what requires a meeting, what belongs in an email, when instant messaging is appropriate, and what qualifies as urgent. Johnny C. Taylor Jr, USA Today, 12 May 2026 They are often shared in social media apps or via instant messaging with classmates. Matt Burgess, Wired News, 15 Apr. 2026 Taking inspiration from Degrassi, Skins follows a group of teens in dead-end Bristol who spice up their dull middle school existences with drinking, drugging, and saucy instant messaging (remember that?). Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Mar. 2026 There was nothing more thrilling than the early days of instant messaging online, chatting with your friends or your crush, and coming up with away messages. Kara Nesvig, Parents, 11 Jan. 2026 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 14 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

instant messaging

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