abbreviation
OML
oh-em-EL
OML (abbreviation) means Short for 'oh my Lord' or 'oh my life', used in messages and social posts to express shock, exasperation or excitement. Example: “OML I just got the internship.”
abbreviation
1
slang Short for 'oh my Lord' or 'oh my life', used in messages and social posts to express shock, exasperation or excitement.
"OML I just got the internship."
"OML this queue has not moved in twenty minutes."
2
slang Short for 'on my life', used to swear that something is true.
"OML I did not touch your charger."
How to use OML
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA text shorthand people type when they are shocked, or when they are swearing something is true.
When to use it
Informal texting and social media only; never appropriate in formal writing.
Memory tip
Read the rest of the message before deciding which meaning applies.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
OML no way
OML I swear
OML stop
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like OML.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____ I just got the internship.
Etymology
An initialism of the phrases 'oh my Lord', 'oh my life' or 'on my life', which reading is intended depends on context.
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between OML and OMG?
OMG ('oh my God') is the older and far more common general exclamation. OML is used the same way but is slightly milder and is favoured by people who avoid saying God, and it can additionally mean 'on my life', a claim of honesty, which OMG never does.
Does OML mean 'on my life'?
Sometimes. If the sentence is a promise or denial, such as 'OML I didn't tell her', it means 'on my life'. If it opens a reaction, such as 'OML that's amazing', it means 'oh my Lord' or 'oh my life'.
What is the meaning of OML?
"OML" (abbreviation) means short for 'oh my Lord' or 'oh my life', used in messages and social posts to express shock, exasperation or excitement.
What is another word for OML?
Other words for "OML" include omg, omfg, smh, ffs, I swear, no cap.
