Internet Slang

What Does "IRL" Mean?

Quick Definition
"In Real Life" — happening in the physical world as opposed to online.
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What "IRL" Really Means

"IRL" stands for "In Real Life" and distinguishes real physical interactions from online ones. Meeting someone "IRL" means meeting them in person after knowing them online. The term has been internet slang since the early days of online communities and remains one of the most universally understood internet abbreviations. It can also be used humorously to describe unexpected real-world manifestations of internet phenomena.

Origin & History

Early internet chat culture; widespread from mid-1990s.

Tone & Context

This slang is generally considered neutral in tone. Universal internet abbreviation. Widely understood across all ages.

Example Sentences

  • "We've been online friends for years but finally met IRL."
  • "I'd never say that IRL — only online."
  • "That meme became a real thing IRL, it's wild."
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Related Slang

What does "AFK" mean? What does "BRB" mean? What does "GG" mean? What does "NPC" mean?

Explore More Internet Slang

Browse our full Internet Slang dictionary for more terms, or check the complete slang glossary.