What Does Netflix and Chill Mean?

Netflix and chill is a slang expression that refers to a casual sexual encounter between two people spending time at home. The phrase functions as a euphemism for sexual activity, though it can also mean watching Netflix and relaxing. Context determines which meaning applies. When someone suggests Netflix and chill, they might be proposing sex rather than actually watching a movie.

Origin and Timeline

The phrase first appeared in a 2009 tweet without sexual connotations. The person who posted it used the words literally to describe watching Netflix and relaxing. For several years, people used the phrase this way.

The meaning changed around 2015. Social media users, particularly teenagers, began using Netflix and chill as code for sex. The phrase became an internet meme that year. Fusion reported that teens commonly understood the phrase to mean sexual activity rather than watching movies.

Merriam-Webster added the phrase to its slang dictionary in 2015. The dictionary entry lists both meanings: to hook up romantically and to relax at home with a movie or TV. By January 2025, Merriam-Webster defines it as a playful, suggestive slang expression for casual sexual encounters.

How the Phrase Works in Dating

People use Netflix and chill as an invitation that sounds innocent but carries sexual implications. Someone might text "want to Netflix and chill?" instead of directly proposing sex. This indirect approach lets the person asking maintain plausible deniability if rejected.

The phrase creates ambiguity. One person might genuinely want to watch a movie. The other might expect sex. This mismatch can cause awkward situations or misunderstandings. Some people prefer the coded language because it feels less forward than explicit invitations.

Age affects how people interpret the phrase. Younger adults who grew up with the meme typically recognize the sexual meaning immediately. Older adults might take the invitation literally and expect to watch Netflix.

Cultural Impact and Mainstream Recognition

Netflix acknowledged the phrase's cultural presence through various actions. At the 2015 World Maker Faire, the company unveiled "The Switch," a prototype device that dims lights, activates Do Not Disturb mode, and prepares Netflix streaming. Media outlets called it the Netflix and chill button.

Several products and events emerged around the phrase in 2015. Kori Williams created Netflix and Chill condoms. Universities planned Netflix and Chill festivals, though at least one canceled due to expected crowd size. Someone spray-painted "and chill" next to the Netflix logo at company headquarters. Ariana Grande released an album titled Christmas & Chill that December.

The phrase appears in mainstream dictionaries and continues to generate cultural references. Its inclusion in Merriam-Webster confirms its place in American slang. Wikipedia maintains an active page documenting the phrase's history and usage.

Communication and Consent

The euphemistic nature of Netflix and chill requires careful communication. Because the phrase carries dual meanings, people should clarify their intentions before meeting. What one person considers an innocent movie night might be interpreted differently by their date.

Direct communication prevents misunderstandings. If someone genuinely wants to watch movies, they should say so explicitly. If they're proposing sex, clearer language avoids confusion. Assuming shared understanding of coded language can lead to uncomfortable situations.

Consent remains essential regardless of how an invitation is phrased. Netflix and chill doesn't imply automatic agreement to sexual activity. Even if both people understand the euphemism, consent must be ongoing and can be withdrawn at any point.

Usage Variations and Context

The phrase functions differently across platforms and situations. On dating apps, Netflix and chill often signals interest in casual sex rather than serious dating. In text messages between established partners, it might genuinely mean watching movies together.

Some people use variations to clarify intent. "Actually, Netflix and chill" or "Netflix and literally chill" emphasizes the non-sexual meaning. "Netflix and chill?" with a question mark and winking emoji strongly suggests the sexual interpretation.

Geographic location and social circles affect understanding. Urban areas and college campuses saw earlier adoption of the euphemistic meaning. Professional settings rarely see the phrase used, given its sexual connotations.

Linguistic Evolution

Netflix and chill demonstrates how internet slang develops new meanings. The phrase underwent semantic drift, moving from literal description to sexual euphemism within six years. This pattern appears in other internet phrases that gain coded meanings through repeated use in specific contexts.

The phrase's structure follows established euphemism patterns. It combines an innocent activity (watching Netflix) with vague language (chill) to create plausible deniability. Similar constructions exist in phrases like "come up for coffee" or "want to see my etchings?"

Dictionary entries now document both meanings, showing how slang becomes formalized. Merriam-Webster's inclusion legitimizes the phrase while preserving its dual nature. This documentation helps non-native speakers and future generations understand contemporary usage.

Practical Considerations for Dating

People using dating apps should recognize that Netflix and chill carries strong sexual implications in that context. Profile mentions or early message suggestions of Netflix and chill typically indicate interest in casual encounters rather than traditional dating.

Time of day affects interpretation. A Friday night Netflix and chill invitation carries different implications than a Sunday afternoon suggestion. Late-night invitations lean toward the sexual interpretation.

First meetings rarely involve genuine Netflix watching. Safety considerations make private home meetings risky for initial dates. Public venues provide safer environments for getting acquainted. Save home visits for after establishing trust and compatibility.