Teen Slang · Online & texting

What does “LOL” mean?

'Laugh out loud.' Often just acknowledgment, not actual laughter.

Where “LOL” comes from

Internet relay chat from the early 1990s; still universal.

Why teens actually say it

Softens a message or signals you're amused.

What it means for you as a parent

Routine.

How it’s used

  • “lol yeah I’ll be there in five.” Softening filler more than real laughter — keeps the text friendly.
  • “You did NOT just send that lol.” Genuine amusement at something a friend said. Light and warm.

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