RLS Meaning: Texting, Instagram & More

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Plus, learn the alternate, medical-related definition

Co-authored by Tobi Nwodo and Elaine Heredia, BA

Last Updated: September 21, 2025 Fact Checked

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• Text Slang Meaning
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• Alternate Meaning
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• Other Text Slang

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If someone recently texted you "RLS" or you spotted the acronym in an Instagram post or a TikTok, you need to know what it means, and we're here to help! Keep reading to learn the meaning of "RLS" as a text slang word, as well as its alternate meaning as a medical condition.

RLS Slang Meaning

"RLS" means "relationship" in texting and internet slang. People use it in place of the full word to speed up their typing time and save character space. Examples of how it's used in text are "What's your RLS status?" and "I have a really good RLS with my siblings." RLS also stands for restless leg syndrome.

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Section 1 of 3:

What does RLS mean in text slang?

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1. 
   "RLS" is slang for "relationship." People who text or post "RLS" on social media are referring to a relationship between 2 or more people. They may use it for any kind of relationship, including romantic, platonic, friends, and family. People like using this slang term when texting because it's quicker and easier to type on a smartphone's small keyboard. It also takes up fewer characters, which helps social media users stay within the character limits for comments and captions on apps like Instagram and TikTok.

   • "What's your RLS status?"
   • "I'm not ready to be in a RLS right now."
   • "My RLS with my parents has gotten a lot better recently."
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Section 2 of 3:

RLS Alternate Meaning

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1. 
   "RLS" can also stand for "restless legs syndrome." Restless legs syndrome is a health disorder. People who suffer from it feel unpleasant sensations in their legs that make them want to move them constantly. The sensations can feel like aching, itching, electric shocking, or creepy crawly, like there's a bug crawling up your leg that won't come off.

   • "My RLS is acting up again."
   • "RLS is kicking my butt! I have such a hard time sleeping because of it."

Section 3 of 3:

Other Examples of Text Slang

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1. Master the art of texting acronyms. Are you ready to learn what other people are saying when they text you an acronym? We've got you covered! These text slang explainer articles will get you up to speed.

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