instant messaging

American  

[in-stuhnt mes-ij-ing] / ˈɪn stənt ˈmɛs ɪdʒ ɪŋ /

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

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instant messaging British  

noun

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

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instant messaging Cultural  

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

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Etymology

Origin of instant messaging

First recorded in 1995–2000

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

instant messaging

“If you’re in a culture where instant messaging is a frequent way of doing things, you’d better have your laptop sitting next to you,” Smith says.

From MarketWatch ● Jun. 30, 2026

After downloading OpenClaw, users connect it to existing artificial intelligence models of their choice, then give it simple instructions through instant messaging apps, as if to a friend or colleague.

From Barron's ● Mar. 13, 2026

The concept was simple but well ahead of its time: bring chatbots to instant messaging platforms.

From Slate ● Aug. 12, 2025

They say the defendants would work in teams to pull Chinese investors into chat groups on QQ - a popular Chinese instant messaging service similar to WhatsApp.

From BBC ● Aug. 22, 2024

That was before the spread of instant messaging and Facebook.

From "A Deadly Wandering: A Mystery, a Landmark Investigation, and the Astonishing Science of Attention in the Digital Age" by Matt Richtel

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