What Does “DW” Mean, and How Do You Use It?

The acronym “DW” is a great way to ease into a conversation via text. But, wait, you don’t know what DW is? Don’t worry; I’ll tell you what it means and how you can use it in your messages.

It stands for Don’t Worry,

The acronym DW stands for “don’t worry.” It is used to tell people to relax and stop worrying. You can use it with a complete message, or on its own, or you could pair it with other phrases. For example, “dw about the issue” or “I have it under control, dw.”

It is widely used in text messages and chat apps like WhatsApp and iMessage. You will also find it used on social media websites such as Twitter and Instagram.

The term is generally written in lowercase “DW” instead of uppercase “DW.” Though it is uncommon, it can also be written as “d/w” with a slash between the letters. However, this style is mainly outdated.

The Origins of DW

The phrase “don’t worry” has been used for a long time. This was famously featured in the Bobby McFerrin song “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” which topped the charts back in 1988.

DW is part of the early group of internet acronyms that gained popularity in the 1990s and 2000s. The first definition of it on Urban Dictionary can be dated back to 2003, along with other slang terms such as TBH and AFK. DW also, like its contemporaries, emerged in online chatrooms and early internet forums. It then gained even more popularity with the rise of instant messaging apps, for example, AOL Instant Messenger and Yahoo Messenger.

To Worry, or Not?

The acronym DW stands for “calming and reassuring.” DW is used to telling people they do not have to worry about something. It is used to defuse a tense situation with someone in chat.

One of the most frequent uses of DW is to show that you have gotten a problem or situation under control. For example, if someone is concerned about the weather for an outdoor event tomorrow, you could text, “DW, I checked the weather today, and the forecast is sunny.” In this context, DW is used to assure someone that you have a handle on things.

Alternatively, DW could also use it to downplay the significance of something if you don’t feel like sharing the details or giving a comprehensive review. So, for example, if your friend is apprehensive about their outfit, you can say “DW” to tell them that it doesn’t matter what they wear.

Could DW be Dear Wife?

Another, not so famous, use of the acronym DW can be found in online marriage or parenting forums. In this context, DW stands for “dear wife” or “darling wife”—an online term of endearment that people use to refer to their partner. It is often used alongside other family-based internet acronyms such as DH, DS, and DD, which stand for “dear husband,” “dear son,” “dear daughter,” and “dear sister,” respectively.

While this usage is significantly less common than “don’t worry,” there is always a possibility you could run across it sometimes. You can often find this usage in stories or posts referencing someone’s spouse. For example, you can see a post saying, “My DW recently repainted our main bedroom.” It looks colorful and full of life! ” DW could also use it sarcastically. For example, if they are frustrated with their partner about something, they might add “dear” to express that.

There are also a few other niche uses of DW. For example, it is sometimes used as a shorthand for the famous British science-fiction show Doctor Who and its titular hero in movie and television circles. DW is also the initial character in the adult animated series Archer.

How do you use DW?

If you use DW, you need to put it where you would otherwise say, “Don’t worry.” For example, if you use it in a conversation or a social media post, you should use the lowercase “dw.” Because it is a casual slang term, you should avoid using it in formal or business communication.

I have given below a few ways you can use DW in your messages:

DW, I’ve already taken care of it.

I asked the landlord for repairs. Do about it.

DW, I’m sure things will turn for the better soon.

DW about the laundry.

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