What does text mean?
Text is the written or printed language used to communicate, as distinct from speech, images, or other forms of presentation. The word can refer to any substantial written passage, but in everyday digital use it usually means a short message sent by mobile phone or online. “Text” also has a technical meaning in computing: information represented by characters, letters, or symbols. As a verb, to text someone is to send them a message through a phone or messaging service. These meanings share a practical focus on language in written form rather than spoken form. The term is neutral and widely used in both formal and informal settings, although “text message” may sound more explicit in formal communication. Because much modern communication is brief and digital, “text” often carries the connotation of a concise personal message. In literary, academic, and publishing contexts, it can denote a source or body of writing under discussion. Its long history and broad range—from manuscripts and books to electronic messages—make it a useful word for thinking about written language as a distinct form of communication.
Written or printed words considered collectively, or a written message. The term also refers to data represented by characters in electronic communication.
"The book contains a detailed text discussing the history of the region."
When referring to a message sent electronically, text often implies brevity and informality.
To send someone a written message using a phone or another electronic messaging service.
"Text me when you arrive, and I will come outside."
This verb is widely established in everyday speech and informal writing.
Relating to or consisting of written words rather than images or spoken language.
"Please send me a text version of the document."
This use is chiefly attributive, as in text message, text file, and text search.
Texts is the regular plural of the countable noun. The word can also have uncountable uses for written language or digital textual data.
"She sent me several texts about the change in plans."
From the Latin for “woven thing,” text turns writing into thread on a page.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does text come from?
The English word text comes from Latin textus, meaning “a woven thing” or “fabric,” an application of texere, “to weave.” By extension, the Latin word came to refer to written language, whose lines were conceptually woven together. English borrowed the word in the Middle English period for a written work or passage. Its relatives include textile and texture, which preserve the idea of weaving, and context and pretext, which develop related senses of something woven together or used as a cover.
Related word forms
How text is actually used
The word is neutral in register and especially common in everyday digital communication. As a verb, it generally implies a brief message rather than a formal letter or lengthy email. The attributive adjective text is common in technical and publishing contexts.