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. 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

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

Fugitive Jamie Rothwell was among the 60,000 users who put their faith in the instant messaging service to run their underworld operations.

From BBC

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

From Slate

The multi-billionaire founder of instant messaging app Telegram, Pavel Durov, says he has fathered more than 100 children.

From BBC

Officials for the county, around 200 miles away from the capital Beijing, said an investigation was under way, in a post shared on China's instant messaging app, WeChat.

From BBC

Each day the speaker refuses to act is another day that more kids could meet the same fate as Nylah Anderson, a 10-year-old from Pennsylvania, who died after she decided to try a choke challenge that a TikTok algorithm recommended to her on its “For You” feed, or Carson Bride, a 16-year-old from Oregon, who died by suicide after classmates incessantly bullied him anonymously over Snapchat and other instant messaging apps.

From Salon