noun
Uncommon
texting
TEHKS-tihng
Texting (noun) means the activity of sending written messages between mobile phones. Example: “Texting while driving is illegal in most states.”
noun
1
The activity of sending written messages between mobile phones.
"Texting while driving is illegal in most states."
"My grandmother has learned texting so she can send photos to the family."
"Constant texting during dinner annoyed everyone else at the table."
How to use texting
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSending text messages by phone.
Common pairings
texting while driving
nonstop texting
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Word forms
- Plural
- textings
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____ while driving is illegal in most states.
Etymology
Texting is a blend of text and messaging, derived from text messaging.
Synonyms
View more →
messaging
sms
Related words
Rhymes for texting
See all rhymes for texting →Frequently asked questions
What does “texting” mean?
The word “texting” means the activity of sending written messages between mobile phones. In plain terms, sending text messages by phone.
How do you pronounce “texting”?
“Texting” is pronounced TEHKS-tihng (/ˈtɛkstɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “texting” in a sentence?
Here is “texting” used in a sentence: “Texting while driving is illegal in most states.”
What part of speech is “texting”?
“Texting” is a noun.
Is “texting” a common word?
“Texting” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between texting and messaging?
Texting specifically refers to sending written messages between mobile phones, traditionally via SMS, while messaging is a broader term that can include texts as well as messages sent through apps, email, or social media. In everyday speech the two are often used interchangeably, but texting has a narrower, phone-based origin.
Is "texting" formal or informal English?
Texting is an informal, everyday term used in casual conversation and writing, matching the informal nature of the activity itself. More formal writing might use phrases like "sending text messages" instead.
Why is texting while driving considered dangerous?
Texting while driving is considered dangerous because it requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention away from the road at the same time, unlike some other distractions that involve only one of those. This combination significantly increases the risk of accidents, which is why many places have laws specifically banning it.
Example sentences
Real-world examples showing texting in context, drawn from published sources. Any opinions expressed are those of the original source and do not reflect the views of FreeDict.com.
Texting pranks rely on the format itself: a message arrives with no tone of voice attached, so the reader supplies one.
From
Pranksters
