What does message mean?
A message is information, a communication, or an idea conveyed from one person or system to another. The word is highly versatile: it can refer to a casual note, a text, a voicemail, a formal communication, or the central point of a longer statement. In technology, a message may also be a discrete item containing text, data, or multimedia. As a verb, message means to send someone a communication, usually through a phone or online service; this use is especially natural in business and digital contexts. The term generally carries a neutral tone, although the idea of a message can imply importance, secrecy, or a deliberate attempt to inform. Its usefulness lies in covering both the information being conveyed and the act of conveying it. The related word messenger preserves the older sense of someone who carries communication between people, while modern messages can travel instantly across the world.
A communication, piece of information, or idea sent from one person or system to another.
"The message contained an invitation to a formal dinner."
The word is appropriate in both informal and formal contexts. Its meaning can refer to the communication itself, its content, or, in a specific context, the central point being communicated.
To send a message to someone, especially by telephone or through an electronic messaging service.
"Please message me when you arrive at the station."
This use is common in everyday and workplace communication, particularly in telephone and online contexts.
The regular plural is messages, used for individual communications or pieces of information.
"Several messages arrived while the meeting was in progress."
From a courier's errand to a phone's notification, the message has remained an idea passed from one person to another.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does message come from?
The word entered English from Old French message, derived from Latin missaticum, meaning “of a mission” or “sent on an errand.” Its ultimate Latin root is mittere, “to send,” through the noun missio, “mission,” or act of sending. Related English words include messenger, mission, missionary, and missive, all reflecting that shared history of sending or conveying.
Related word forms
How message is actually used
As a noun, message is neutral and widely used, ranging from casual conversation to official communication. As a verb, message is especially common in electronic and workplace communication and is usually neutral in register.
Easily confused with message
A message can contain any kind of communication, whereas a text is specifically a written or typed message, usually sent electronically.
A message conveys information, while a massage is a treatment involving the manipulation of the body.