If you spend time on Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok, you’ve probably seen someone say “Slide into your DMs like…” followed by a funny or flirty comment. It’s part of online slang that’s become common in meme culture, especially when people talk about messaging others — sometimes to flirt, sometimes just for fun.
In this article, we’ll explain what it means, where it came from, and how people use it today.
What Does “Slide Into Your DMs” Mean?
First, let’s break it down.
“DM” stands for direct message — a private conversation between users on platforms like Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), or Facebook. When someone says they’re going to “slide into your DMs,” they usually mean they’re going to message you privately — often to flirt, compliment, or start a conversation they might not say publicly.
The word “slide” makes it sound smooth, like a cool or casual move.
What Does “Slide Into Your DMs Like…” Mean?
This is the more playful, meme-style version of the phrase. It takes the original idea of sending someone a private message and turns it into a joke, often by adding a comparison after the word “like.”
People use this phrase to exaggerate how bold, awkward, smooth, or funny their DM might be.
Examples:
- “Slide into your DMs like a penguin on ice.”
- “Slide into your DMs like: hey, you up?”
- “Slide into your DMs like it’s 2 a.m. and I just remembered your story from 5 weeks ago.”
It’s a mix of humor, confidence, and internet creativity.
Where Did the Phrase Come From?
The phrase started becoming popular around 2015–2016, mostly on Twitter and Instagram. It was often used to talk about flirting online or to post screenshots of funny messages people sent.
As meme formats evolved, the phrase became more visual and creative. TikTok helped push it further with videos showing dramatic or funny ways people “slide” into someone’s inbox.
You’ll now see it commonly on:
- X (formerly Twitter)
- TikTok
- Memes and GIFs
Why Do People Use This Phrase Online?
People use it for a few reasons:
- Flirting: It’s a casual way to hint that someone wants to start a private conversation, often with romantic intent.
- Jokes and memes: Many people use it in funny ways, making fun of how awkward or bold DM attempts can be.
- Pop culture reference: It’s a familiar, shareable phrase that shows you’re part of internet culture.
The phrase lets people talk about DMs without taking themselves too seriously.
Is It Always Flirty? Or Can It Be Creepy?
The phrase “slide into your DMs” isn’t always flirty—it really depends on tone and context.
When two people know each other and there’s mutual interest, it can come across as playful or even flattering.
But if the message is unwanted, unexpected, or overly forward, it can easily feel uncomfortable or intrusive.
Just using the phrase doesn’t make the message okay; how it’s received depends entirely on the relationship between the people involved and the way the message is delivered.
Examples of “Slide Into Your DMs Like…” Memes
Here are a few funny examples:
- “Slide into your DMs like a cat knocking over a glass — confident and careless.”
- “Slide into your DMs like: 👀 hey lol just saw your story 😅”
- “Slide into your DMs like your Wi-Fi just came back and you have 20 missed messages.”
Memes like these play on awkwardness, timing, or bold moves — and they’re meant to entertain more than impress.
Similar Phrases You Might See Online
The internet loves slang. Here are a few others with similar meanings:
- “Shoot your shot” – Try to flirt or make a move, even if unsure of the outcome.
- “Hit me up” (HMU) – A casual way to say “message me.”
- “Send it” – Go for it; take the chance.
These all tie into the idea of direct messaging or online communication.
Final Thoughts
“Slide into your DMs like…” is a modern internet phrase used in social media, memes, and flirting. It started as a way to talk about sending private messages but grew into a funny, sometimes flirty format used in everyday online conversation.
It blends humor and boldness — and like many internet sayings, it depends on context. If you’re not sure how it’s meant, look at the tone, the relationship between people, and the way it’s being used.
Understanding phrases like this helps you keep up with online trends, memes, and how people talk in the digital world today.