text message

American  

noun

1. an electronic message sent over a cellular network from one cell phone to another by typing words, often in shortened form, as “l8t” for “late,” on the phone's numeric or QWERTY keypad.

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text message British  

noun

1. a written message sent by means of a mobile phone

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Etymology

Origin of text message

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

“With bg. All you would have to say, is you should know that I’ve told jeffrey everything – everything,” Epstein wrote in a text message.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

Asked to respond to the lawmakers’ allegations and ProPublica’s reporting, Navarro in a text message wrote “Staggering level of hyperbole. More fake news” but did not elaborate.

From Salon • Jun. 5, 2026

“Many groups have adopted ‘Freedom 250’ branding as part of their festivities, even though it does not mean it is backed by Freedom 250 funding,” Alvarez said in a text message.

From Los Angeles Times • May 29, 2026

The other set is given on the night by viewers voting via telephone, text message or the official app.

From Barron's • May 16, 2026

I hold up my phone so the officer can see the text message I received.

From "Warcross" by Marie Lu