text messaging

noun

: the sending of short text messages electronically especially from one cell phone to another

Examples of text messaging in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Online banking, shopping and text messaging services stopped working. — New York Times, 15 Jan. 2026 The convergence of radio with new technologies such as text messaging could enhance its use for educational purposes. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 29 Apr. 2026 While Americans still prefer text messaging to WhatsApp, the app is widely used in Europe, Asia and much of the rest of the world. — Kelvin Chan, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026 Any wireless electronic device that is capable of navigation, text messaging, sending and receiving photos and videos, or accessing email would fall under the rules that are spelled out in the bill. — Paula Wethington, CBS News, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for text messaging

Word History

First Known Use

1980, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of text messaging was in 1980

Rhymes for text messaging

See All Rhymes for text messaging

Browse Nearby Words

text message
text messaging
textual
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Text messaging.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/text%20messaging. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

text messaging

noun
text mes·​sag·​ing
-ˈmes-i-jiŋ
: the sending of text messages electronically especially from one cell phone to another

More from Merriam-Webster on text messaging

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about text messaging

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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