Sexting, defined
Sexting means sending sexual or flirtatious messages, photos, videos or voice notes to another person by phone, messaging app or online. The word is a mix of "sex" and "texting". Between consenting adults it's legal, common and, for many people, a fun part of dating and relationships.
What counts as sexting?
Sexting covers a wide range of things, from mild to very explicit:
- Flirty messages: compliments, innuendo and teasing
- Explicit messages: describing what you'd like to do, or fantasies
- Suggestive photos: underwear, outfits or partial nudity, sometimes called "semi-nudes"
- Nudes: naked photos
- Videos and voice notes
- Live video calls of a sexual nature, sometimes called "cybersex"
- Emojis used as sexual shorthand, like the aubergine, peach or water droplets. See our sexting emoji guide
Many people only ever sext with words. That's still sexting, and it carries much less risk than sending images.
Sexting slang you might see
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Nudes / nude pic | A naked photo |
| Semi-nude | A partly clothed or underwear photo |
| Send pics / SPN | A request for photos ("send pics now") |
| Dick pic | A photo of a penis. Unsolicited ones are cyberflashing |
| NSFW | "Not safe for work": explicit content |
| Spicy | Sexual or explicit |
| View once | A photo that can only be opened once |
| Snap | A Snapchat photo or video |
Why do people sext?
To flirt and build anticipation before a date, to stay close in a long-distance relationship, to keep things exciting in a long-term relationship, to explore fantasies without pressure, or simply because it's fun. See why people sext and why sexting is so arousing.
Is sexting legal?
Read more: sexting and the law and what you can and can't send.
Is sexting safe?
It can be, if you're careful. The biggest risk is that once you send an image, you can't control what happens to it. The basics:
- Only sext with adults you trust, who've clearly said they want to
- Use an encrypted app with disappearing messages
- Keep your face and identifying features out of images
- Be wary of anyone who gets sexual very quickly or won't video call
Full guide: the safe sexting guide.
Sexting and relationships
For many couples, sexting is a normal part of intimacy. It works best when you both agree on the boundaries: what you're comfortable with, whether faces are OK, and what happens to images if you split up. If you're not sure how to start, read how to start sexting.
Frequently asked questions
What does sexting mean?
Sending sexual or flirtatious messages, photos or videos to another person digitally. It's a combination of "sex" and "texting".
Is sexting only about photos?
No. Many people sext only with words, emojis or voice notes.
How common is sexting?
Very common. Research consistently finds that a large proportion of adults have sexted, and it's especially common among people who are dating or in relationships. See 10 facts about sexting.
Where can I find adults to sext with?
On adult sites and apps designed for it, where everyone is 18+ and there for the same reason. Always get consent before sending anything explicit.
Need help right now?
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999 (UK), 112 (Ireland/EU), 911 (US/Canada) or 000 (Australia).
- Images shared or threatened (adults, UK): Revenge Porn Helpline, revengepornhelpline.org.uk or 0345 6000 459
- Stop images spreading (worldwide, adults): StopNCII.org
- Under 18: Childline's Report Remove tool at childline.org.uk or call 0800 1111. Outside the UK: Take It Down
- More countries and services: see our help and support directory