abbreviation

XOXO

eks-oh-eks-OH

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XOXO (abbreviation) means Hugs and kisses, used to close a message, card or letter affectionately, with each X standing for a kiss and each O for a hug. Example: “Miss you already. xoxo”

abbreviation

informal Hugs and kisses, used to close a message, card or letter affectionately, with each X standing for a kiss and each O for a hug.

"Miss you already. xoxo"

"She ended every email to her sister with xoxo."

How to use XOXO

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA way of writing "hugs and kisses" to sign off a message.

When to use it

Personal messages, cards and social posts. Never appropriate in professional correspondence.

Memory tip

Put it on its own line after your message, before or instead of your name.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

xo → xx xd →

Common pairings

love you xoxo xoxo, Mum ends with xoxo

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “XOXO” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Miss you already. _____

Etymology

A repetition of the written symbols X for a kiss and O for a hug.

Origin: English

Synonyms

View more →

xo love hugs and kisses lots of love

Related words

love hate bed enjoy passion honey bang lover

Frequently asked questions

What does XOXO stand for?

Kiss, hug, kiss, hug. The X represents a kiss and the O represents a hug, and repeating the pair simply makes the sign-off warmer.

Is XOXO romantic?

Not necessarily. It is used between friends, family and colleagues who are close, as well as between partners. Sent to someone you barely know, however, it will read as flirtatious.

What is the difference between XOXO and XX?

Both mean affection at the end of a message. XX is kisses only and is the standard British form; XOXO mixes kisses and hugs and is more common in American writing.

What is the meaning of XOXO?

"XOXO" (abbreviation) means hugs and kisses, used to close a message, card or letter affectionately, with each X standing for a kiss and each O for a hug.

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