Definition

Abbreviation for 'in real life,' used to distinguish between online/virtual interactions and face-to-face interactions, or to emphasize that something is happening in the physical world rather than digitally.

Example Usage

We met online, but we finally hung out irl last weekend.

Origin

Internet slang from the 1990s, emerged as online communities became more prevalent and people began distinguishing virtual from physical spaces.

Fun Fact

Particularly useful in gaming and online community contexts where participants may interact exclusively digitally for extended periods.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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See “irl” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.

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