What Does OMW Mean?

PDF download Download Article
Someone messaged you OMW? Here's what they're trying to say
PDF download Download Article

“OMW” is one of the many popular three-letter phrases in the internet’s constantly-growing list of slang. With a surprisingly rich history, an enigmatic tone, and multiple meanings, it can be a hard term to decipher and even harder to respond to. But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. We’re here to walk you through the many possible nuances of this deceptively-simple abbreviation. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to use and reply to “OMW” with ease!

Section 1 of 5:

“OMW” Meanings

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2d\/OMW-Meaning-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2d\/OMW-Meaning-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The most common phrase that “OMW” stands for is “on my way.” People often use “OMW” to quickly convey that they’re headed to a specific location. [1]
    • ”OMW” is used so often as an abbreviation for “On My Way!” that Apple has even programmed its devices to autocorrect “OMW” to “On my way!” [2]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1a\/OMW-Meaning-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1a\/OMW-Meaning-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Some people use “OMW” as a shorthand for “oh my word” which makes for a less controversial alternative to “oh my God.” [3]
    3. Advertisement
Section 2 of 5:

How to Use “OMW” (On My Way)

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/OMW-Meaning-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/OMW-Meaning-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Sending someone a quick “OMW” is a simple yet helpful way of letting someone know you’re headed towards them. [4]
    • “In the car. OMW.”
    • “Just showered, OMW now.”
    • “OMW. I should be there around 3.”
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/74\/OMW-Meaning-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/74\/OMW-Meaning-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    14 minutes away when you should be 4? Use “OMW!” Because “OMW” is vague and doesn’t include an estimated arrival time (or any other info for that matter), it can help cover your tracks when time gets the better of you. [5]
    • “OMW. But there’s traffic 🙁”
    • “OMW. See you soon! 😄”
    • “Save me a seat, I’m OMW!”
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f2\/OMW-Meaning-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f2\/OMW-Meaning-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    for a more neutral tone. While their meaning is the same, “on my way!” has a very different tone than “OMW.” If you’re going to meet someone in a professional context (or you just don’t want to appear too excited), abbreviating “on my way” and replacing the exclamation point with a period is a safe bet. [6]
    • To be even more subtle, you can send “omw” in all lowercase. [7]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e8\/OMW-Meaning-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e8\/OMW-Meaning-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Many believe that “OMW” rose to popularity in the early 2000’s in the chatrooms of online games like Runescape and World of Warcraft. When players wanted to call for backup but needed their hands on the keyboard to defend their characters, sending “OMW” to friends saved them time and points. It could do the same for you! [8]
    • “OMW to your dungeon now! Hold tight!”
    • “OMW! Can you get him to 50 HP for me?”
    • “OMW how hard is this boss?”
    5. Advertisement
Section 3 of 5:

How to Use “OMW” (Oh My Word)

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/39\/OMW-Meaning-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/39\/OMW-Meaning-Step-7.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Since “oh my word” is an alternative for “oh my God,” use “OMW” to convey the same shock you would if you were saying “OMG.” [9]
    • “OMW you’ll never guess what just happened!”
    • “OMW this rain is crazy!”
    • “OMW I did not expect Tony and Sandra to get engaged this soon!”
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/68\/OMW-Meaning-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/68\/OMW-Meaning-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When spelled-out words don’t feel like enough, or they feel too frustrating to type, “OMW,” like “OMG,” is an effective way to show someone you’re exasperated over text. [10]
    • “OMW I’m so sick of these rude customers!”
    • “OMW! Who does that jerk think he is?!”
    • “OMW I can’t even 🤬🙄”
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/23\/OMW-Meaning-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/23\/OMW-Meaning-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Just got a promotion? Your favorite restaurant chain opened up a block from your house? An all-caps “OMW” is a perfect exclamation of joy!
    • “OMW! GUESS WHO GOT HER DRIVER’S LICENSE?”
    • “OMW I MADE DEBATE FINALS!”
    • “OMW! THAT’S WONDERFUL! I’M SO HAPPY FOR YOU!”
    4. Advertisement
Section 4 of 5:

How to Reply When Someone Texts “OMW” (On My Way)

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fb\/OMW-Meaning-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/fb\/OMW-Meaning-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If someone texts you “OMW” to let you know they’re in transit towards you, it’s polite to acknowledge you got their message.
    • “Got it. Thanks!”
    • “Okie dokie. See you soon!”
    • “👍”
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/15\/OMW-Meaning-Step-11-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-11-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/15\/OMW-Meaning-Step-11-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-11-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you have a hard deadline or time you need to start and someone only texts you “OMW,” it’s completely reasonable to ask where they are or for their estimated arrival time. [11]
    • “Okay. What’s your ETA?”
    • “How far out are ya? I need ya here ASAP!”
    • “Can you share your location so I know where you’re at?”
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0b\/OMW-Meaning-Step-12-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-12-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0b\/OMW-Meaning-Step-12-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-12-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If someone is known for texting colorfully with lots of words and emojis, but merely sends you an “OMW.” message, check in on them. See if there’s been a relationship rift or if you can help. [12]
    • “Okay. Everything okay?”
    • “Take your time. Also, I’m here if you need to talk.”
    • “Got it. We’re good, right?”
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d1\/OMW-Meaning-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d1\/OMW-Meaning-Step-13.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If someone is using “OMW” during a video game, give them more information about what they might need to enhance their gameplay. [13]
    • “Okay. It’s a water-type so avoid using fire attacks.”
    • “Get here soon. We need 5 players to advance to the next level.”
    • “Okay. Hide your melee weapons! This arena is weird!”
    5. Advertisement
Section 5 of 5:

How to Reply When Someone Texts “OMW” (Oh My Word)

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ee\/OMW-Meaning-Step-14.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-14.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ee\/OMW-Meaning-Step-14.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-14.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Half the fun of a surprise is the person’s reaction. If someone hits you with unexpected news, don’t hide your shock! [14]
    • “NO WAY!”
    • “SERIOUSLY????
    • “🤯😯”
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/85\/OMW-Meaning-Step-15.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-15.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/85\/OMW-Meaning-Step-15.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-15.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When someone texts “OMW” because they’re angry, the best way to be there for them is to validate their irritations and actively listen to their outrage. They want to be understood and to feel vindicated. [15]
    • “Ugh! That’s so annoying!”
    • “Seriously? I’m so sorry! I’d be PISSED!”
    • “WTF? How dare they!”
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e9\/OMW-Meaning-Step-16.jpg\/v4-460px-OMW-Meaning-Step-16.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e9\/OMW-Meaning-Step-16.jpg\/v4-728px-OMW-Meaning-Step-16.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If the tone of an “OMW” text is positive, share that texter’s glee with them. It’ll likely improve both of your moods.
    • “GAAAAAHHHHHH! THAT’S SO EXCITING!”
    • “OMW RIGHT BACK AT YA! I’M SO PROUD OF YOU!”
    • “WOOHOOOOO! 🎉🎇🎊”
    4. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      What Does <3 Mean on Social Media?
      What Does DW Mean? Snapchat, Texting, and More
      How to Watch TikTok Content Without Having to Install the App
      100 Cute, Funny, and Hype Comments for Social Media Posts
      How to React When Someone Blocks You
      Explaining Whether You Look Like Your Inverted or Mirror Image
      What Does “GYATT” Mean? Plus, When & How to Use It
      How to
      Find Out Who Owns an Instagram Account
      What Happens When You Block Someone on IG: Will They Know?
      8 Easy Ways to Fix Instagram Invite Collaborator Not Showing
      This Story is Unavailable Instagram: 9 Reasons & Fixes
      What Does WYA Mean? Snapchat, Texting, and More
      3 Simple Ways to Tell if Someone Has Snapchat Plus
      What Does WTV Mean?
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ ​​ https://www.macmillandictionary.com/us/dictionary/american/omw
      2. ↑ https://www.macworld.com/article/232814/how-to-fix-autocorrects-ducking-problem-on-iphone.html
      3. ↑ https://www.netlingo.com/word/omw.php
      4. ↑ https://www.businessinsider.com/social-media-slang-terms-you-really-should-know-by-now-2017-10
      5. ↑ https://www.businessinsider.com/social-media-slang-terms-you-really-should-know-by-now-2017-10
      6. ↑ https://www.npr.org/2020/09/05/909969004/before-texting-your-kid-make-sure-to-double-check-your-punctuation
      7. ↑ https://www.theverge.com/2018/11/7/18068674/whyd-you-push-that-button-texting-lowercase-exclamation-point-style
      8. ↑ https://7esl.com/omw/
      9. ↑ https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/omg
      1. ↑ https://www.mmguardian.com/teen-slang/omg
      2. ↑ https://www.businessinsider.com/social-media-slang-terms-you-really-should-know-by-now-2017-10
      3. ↑ https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2017/07/the-dreaded-omw-on-my-way-issue-is-easily-fixable.html
      4. ↑ https://7esl.com/omw/
      5. ↑ https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/omg
      6. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/making-change/202110/how-respond-when-someone-is-angry

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 62,320 times.

      Is this article up to date?

      Advertisement