Texted: meaning, definitions and examples

💬

Add to dictionary

texted

[tɛkstɪd ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

communication method

Texted is the past tense of 'text,' which refers to the act of sending a written message electronically, typically via a mobile device. It implies a quick exchange of information or thoughts.

Synonyms

communicated, messaged, wrote.

Examples of usage

I texted her to say I'll be late.
He texted me the address for the meeting.
They texted their friends about the concert.
Have you texted your parents yet?
She texted me last night with the news.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'text' comes from the Latin word 'textus', meaning 'to weave', which reflects how words are woven together to create meaning.
Originally, 'texted' referred to sending messages in written form, especially through mobile devices, starting in the late 1990s.
The evolution of 'texted' reflects the rise of mobile communication technology, as it became more common with the proliferation of cell phones.

Cultural Impact

Texting has transformed how people communicate, leading to faster responses and more informal language styles.
Emojis and abbreviations like 'LOL' and 'BRB' have become part of texting lingo, creating a unique cultural language among younger generations.
With the rise of social media, texting has influenced how information spreads, making it easier to share news quickly.

Technology

Text messaging became widely popular with the introduction of SMS (Short Message Service) in the 1990s, allowing users to send short text messages.
Today, messaging apps like WhatsApp and iMessage have expanded the capabilities of texting to include multimedia, stickers, and group chats.
As of 2021, billions of people worldwide use text messaging as a primary form of communication, showing its global reach.

Psychology

Texting allows for emotional expression; studies show that people often express feelings more openly through written text than in person.
The anonymity of texting can lead to more honest communication, as individuals may feel less inhibited when typing their thoughts.
However, the convenience of texting can sometimes reduce face-to-face interactions, impacting social skills and personal connections.

Literature

Texting has inspired new genres of storytelling, such as novels and plays that incorporate text message exchanges into their narratives.
Authors exploring modern relationships often use texting as a plot device to illustrate contemporary communication dynamics.
Poetry has also adapted to this form, with 'textual poetry' emerging, where poems are crafted using text message formats and emojis.