instant messaging

[ in-stuhnt mes-ij-ing ]

noun

, Digital Technology.

1. a system for exchanging typed electronic messages instantly via the internet or a cellular network, using a shared software application on a personal computer or mobile device. : IM

instant messaging

noun

1. computing the online facility that allows the instant exchange of written messages between two or more people using different computers or mobile phones AbbreviationIM

instant messaging

1. A computer communications program that allows people to send and receive typed messages very rapidly. It is often used for online “chats.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of instant messaging¹

First recorded in 1995–2000

Example Sentences

The Andreessen-Horowitz-backed mobile app came out of invite-only beta and added an internal instant messaging layer to manage moderators, speakers, listener questions, room onboarding and feedback.

From TechCrunch

Montreal-based company Paper has put this idea into action, using instant messaging to tutor students at affordable rates.

From Ozy

Luckily, all three of these social networks, as well as instant messaging apps like WhatsApp, offer tools for muting certain contacts—or at least dialing down the number of their posts you see.

From Popular-Science

This meant emails, video meetings, instant messaging and document management were directed through a central security point.

From Digiday

Some companies have already moved away from using instant messaging.

From Digiday

Maybe it had something to do with words scrolling on television or people using instant messaging.

From The Daily Beast

The appeal of instant messaging is that you control—the child controls—the means of communication.

From The Daily Beast

And I knew that he was back there in the silence instant messaging his friends, as I say.

From The Daily Beast

I loved the simplicity of it, I loved the autonomy of it, and I loved the language of abbreviations that instant messaging has.

From The Daily Beast

Now, instant messaging is something that I could not understand.

From The Daily Beast