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 WhatsApp was a $19.3 billion purchase for Meta WhatsApp is an instant messaging service that began in 2009. Chad Murphy, The Enquirer, 5 Mar. 2024 Snapchat, an instant messaging app, is not owned by Meta but is actually owned by the company Snap Inc. Snap Inc. was cofounded by Evan Spiegel and Bobby Murphy in September 2011. Haadiza Ogwude, The Enquirer, 5 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for instant messaging 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'instant messaging.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1995, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of instant messaging was in 1995

Dictionary Entries Near instant messaging

Cite this Entry

“Instant messaging.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/instant%20messaging. Accessed 29 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

instant messaging

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