adjective Uncommon

XXX

ehks-ehks-EHKS

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XXX (adjective) means marking content as explicit or hardcore pornographic material. Example: “The video store had a separate xxx section in the back.”

adjective

Marking content as explicit or hardcore pornographic material.

"The video store had a separate xxx section in the back."

noun

Informally, a symbol for kisses, often placed at the end of a text message or letter.

"She signed off the text with "see you soon, xxx.""

How to use XXX

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishEither a label for explicit adult content, or informal shorthand for "kisses" at the end of a message.

When to use it

Very informal in both senses — never used in formal writing.

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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”.

Word forms

Plural: XXXs
Third person singular: XXXes
Past tense: XXXed
Comparative: more XXX
Superlative: most XXX

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The video store had a separate _____ section in the back.

Etymology

The pornography sense comes from the US film rating "X," introduced in 1968 for adult content; posters exaggerated it to "XXX" to imply something even more extreme. The "kisses" sense is unrelated, from the letter X historically representing a kiss on letters.

· First attested 1968

Class of 1968 XXX joined the language around 1968.

reggae

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Synonyms

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thirty 30

Related words

thirty

Frequently asked questions

What does XXX mean at the end of a text message?

At the end of a text or letter, XXX is an informal symbol for kisses, used as a friendly or affectionate sign-off. This usage is unrelated to its meaning as a label for explicit content.

Is XXX appropriate in formal or professional writing?

No, XXX is informal in both its senses and should be avoided in formal or professional writing. As a content label it is also explicit in nature, and as a sign-off it is reserved for personal, casual messages.

What is the meaning of XXX?

"XXX" (adjective) means marking content as explicit or hardcore pornographic material.

What is another word for XXX?

Other words for "XXX" include thirty, 30.

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Vocabulary lists that include XXX:

Words that start with X Words that end with X

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