Ever been mid-scroll, chatting with a friend or crush, and you get hit with a mysterious string of digits? You see “000” pop up at the end of a message and your brain does a quick double-take. “Is that a typo? Did they fall asleep on their keyboard? Or… is this some new secret code I’m not cool enough to know?
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. In the fast-evolving world of texting slang, a simple trio of zeros has carved out its own niche, carrying meanings that range from sweet to silly. It’s the kind of subtle shorthand that can leave you decoding intent instead of just reading words. Let’s crack the code together.
In texting, “000” most commonly means “Hugs and Kisses” or represents infinite, endless love or time. It’s a casual, often playful or flirty, alternative to “xxx” (kisses) or “ooo” (hugs), blending the two into one symbol. Less commonly, it can signal laughter (“hahaha”) or mark a time (midnight).
🧠 What Does 000 Mean in Text?
So, what’s the real deal with 000? Unlike many text abbreviations that are initials (like “BRB” or “OMG”), 000 is purely symbolic. Its meaning comes from its visual shape and its relation to other common text symbols.
The primary and most widely accepted meaning is “Hugs and Kisses.” Here’s the breakdown:
- The letter X in “XOXO” traditionally means a kiss (it resembles puckered lips).
- The letter O symbolizes a hug (it looks like arms encircling someone).
- Therefore, “000” — three O’s — visually represents three hugs. However, in practice, it’s often used interchangeably to convey a mix of affection, much like “xoxo.”
Think of it as a warm, fuzzy sign-off. It’s less formal than “Love,” but more affectionate than just a simple “Goodnight.”
Example Sentence: “Had the best time tonight! Talk tomorrow, 000 😊”
In short: 000 = Hugs and Kisses = A warm, affectionate sign-off.
📱 Where Is 000 Commonly Used?
You’ll spot this little numeric trio popping up in specific digital spaces where quick, expressive communication is key. It’s not for every platform.
- Texting & Instant Messaging (iMessage, WhatsApp, Telegram): 🫂 Its main home. Perfect for personal chats.
- Social Media DMs (Instagram, Facebook Messenger, TikTok): 💬 Common in private, one-on-one conversations, especially among friends and romantic interests.
- Casual Online Forums & Gaming Chats: 🎮 Sometimes used among close-knit community members or guilds as a friendly sign-off.
Tone & Formality: 000 is strictly casual and social-media-friendly. You should never use it in formal emails, work-related communication, or any professional context. Its home is in the realm of personal, friendly, and romantic exchanges.
💬 Examples of 000 in Conversation
Let’s see how it flows in real chats. Context is everything!
- As a Sweet Goodnight:
- A: “I’m heading to sleep, exhausted. Big day tomorrow!”
- B: “Sleep well! Dream of something awesome 😴 000”
- Between Close Friends:
- A: “Thanks for listening to me vent today. You’re the best.”
- B: “Anytime, seriously. 000 💖”
- In a Flirty Context:
- A: “Can’t stop thinking about our date last night.”
- B: “Me neither… 000 😉”
- As a Thank You:
- A: “I left a little care package on your porch for you!”
- B: “OMG you’re an angel!! Thank you!!! 000”
- Marking Midnight (Less Common):
- A: “What time does the event start?”
- B: “At 000, so right at midnight!”
- Representing Laughter (Rare, contextual):
- A: “I just tried to walk into the closet thinking it was the bathroom 🤦♀️”
- B: “000! You need more sleep!”
🕓 When to Use and When Not to Use 000
Navigating when to send those zeros will keep your messages well-received.
✅ WHEN TO USE 000:
- With close friends and family.
- In romantic or flirtatious exchanges.
- As a warm, friendly sign-off at the end of a casual conversation.
- When you want to convey comfort, support, or affection informally.
❌ WHEN NOT TO USE 000:
- In professional emails, Slack messages, or any work communication.
- With acquaintances, bosses, or people you don’t know well.
- During serious, urgent, or bad-news conversations.
- In formal writing of any kind.
| Context | Example Phrase | Why It Works (or Doesn’t) |
|---|---|---|
| Friend Chat | “Miss you! Can’t wait for the weekend, 000 🥰” | Casual, affectionate, and perfectly suited for friendship. |
| Flirty Text | “Thinking of you… 000” | Conveys intimacy and playfulness in a low-pressure way. |
| Work Chat | “Thanks for sending that over. Appreciate it.” | Professional and polite. Using 000 here would be inappropriate. |
| Formal Email | “Thank you for your time and consideration.” | Clear, respectful, and expected in professional settings. |
🔄 Similar Slang Words or Alternatives
000 isn’t the only way to send virtual affection. Here’s your cheat sheet for similar slang.
| Slang | Meaning | When to Use It |
|---|---|---|
| XOXO | Hugs and Kisses | The classic, universally understood sign-off for love/affection. |
| OOO or O | Hugs | Specifically for hugs. “O” can be used singly (“Sending you an O!”). |
| XXX | Kisses | Specifically for kisses. Can be flirty or platonic among friends. |
| <3 | Love/Heart | Versatile symbol for love, liking, or appreciation. Less physical than 000. |
| MWAH | Kiss sound (Onomatopoeia) | Playful, dramatic, and often used jokingly or very affectionately. |
| ILY / ILYSM | I Love You / I Love You So Much | Direct and explicit declaration of love for very close relationships. |
❓ FAQs About 000
Is 000 flirty?
It can be! Its flirty level depends entirely on your existing relationship with the person. From a crush, it’s often a warm, suggestive hint. Between long-term friends, it’s just warmly platonic.
What’s the difference between 000 and XOXO?
XOXO is the standard, full phrase for “hugs and kisses.” 000 is a more modern, minimalist, and often more casual or subtle take on the same idea, leaning visually into the “hugs” symbol.
Can 000 mean something else?
Yes, but context is king. In scheduling, it can mean midnight (12:00 AM). Very rarely, in specific online groups, it might be used for laughter (like “hahaha”) because the zeros look like wide-open mouths. But “hugs and kisses” is by far the most common texting meaning.
Is it okay to use 000 with a new friend?
Proceed with caution. If you’ve established a very warm, joking rapport quickly, a single “000” might be fine. But if in doubt, stick to emojis like 😊 or 👍 until you’re sure they’d be comfortable with it.
💭 Conclusion
In the end, 000 is a tiny digital emblem of warmth—a way to wrap up a message with a virtual squeeze without having to spell it out. It lives in that beautiful, ambiguous space of texting that makes our digital conversations feel more human. It’s not a typo, and now you’re in on the secret. So next time you see those three little zeros glowing on your screen, you’ll know it’s likely a small, affectionate nudge from the person on the other end. And if you’re feeling it, don’t be afraid to send a few back. 000 😉
Olivia Bennett is a lifestyle researcher and holistic wellness advocate specializing in mindfulness, dream healing, and manifestation techniques. With a background in psychology and meditation therapy, Olivia writes to empower readers to achieve mental clarity and emotional balance through dream awareness. Her articles provide practical tips, spiritual insights, and real-life strategies for boosting intuition and creating a more meaningful life. Olivia’s work at DreamingSign.com inspires readers to use dreams as a tool for personal transformation.
