# DMS

CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dms
Updated: 2026-05-10

## Definition

Stands for direct messages. Private messages sent between two people on social media. You use this when you want to move a public conversation to a private chat.

For teachers: Abbreviation for direct messages. Direct messages sent via a social media platform's private messaging feature. Often used in the plural to refer to the inbox or the act of private communication.

## Examples

- I will send you the address in your DMs.
- The influencer asked her followers to check their DMs for the exclusive discount code she promised.
- While the public comment section was filled with heated debate, the two users managed to resolve their misunderstanding through a series of polite DMs.

## Usage notes

- Usually plural; often used in the phrase 'slide into someone's DMs' to mean initiating a private conversation, sometimes with romantic intent.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.