What does notification mean?
A notification is a communication that tells someone about an event, decision, or change, especially when the information is official or expected. In general and legal contexts, it can refer to a formal notice, such as an official letter or announcement. In modern digital settings, “notification” usually means an alert delivered by a phone, computer, or application, including text messages, app alerts, and email alerts. The word carries a practical and often mildly urgent implication: it signals that information is available or that attention is required. Although related to the broader word “notice,” a notification tends to be more specific, organized, and deliberately sent. It is also widely used in computing and mobile technology, where users may enable, disable, or receive notifications according to their preferences.
nounAn official or formal communication that informs someone of an event, decision, or requirement. In modern usage, it also commonly refers to an alert or message delivered by a phone, computer, or other electronic device.
- A formal or official communication informing someone of an event, decision, or requirement.
- An electronic alert or message delivered by a device, such as a phone or computer.
"The council issued a notification about the change in opening hours."
"All applicants will receive a notification of the interview date by email."
"She silenced the notification so that the message would not interrupt the meeting."
The plural is used for multiple formal communications or electronic alerts, and is especially common in interface settings such as notification settings and push notifications.
"The app sends several notifications when a new message arrives."
From the Latin for “making known,” a notification is simply a formal way of announcing that something has arrived—or that you should pay attention.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does notification come from?
The word comes from Latin notificare, formed from notus, meaning “known,” and facere, meaning “to make,” so its original sense was “to make known.” The English noun developed through the related forms “notice” and “notify.” Its modern technological meaning is an extension of the older sense of formally informing someone, now applied to alerts sent through electronic devices.
Related word forms
How notification is actually used
In general and legal contexts, “notification” tends to be formal and often means the act of officially informing someone. In technology, it usually refers to an electronic alert, and “push notification” is especially common for messages sent through a mobile device.
Easily confused with notification
A notification is often a formal or electronic message sent to inform someone, whereas a notice can be a displayed announcement, a short written statement, or the act of becoming aware.