Not sure what to say when things are getting a little steamy over text? If inspiration runs dry, try OwO.
OwO is used over text as an expression of surprise – it’s supposed to look like an emoji, with the two ‘o’ as eyes, and the ‘w’ as a mouth.
(You may also have heard OWO as an abbreviation for Oral WithOut – basically oral sex without protection – different to the emoji based term we’re discussing here.)
As well as surprise, OwO can also be used as to show desire – the new Kink Index by Sensuali, a sex positive platform, says that the term OwO has increased by 57% in Google searches over the past five years.
Sex expert, therapist and psychologist, Ness Cooper, tells Metro.co.uk that using OwO could not only level up your sexting, but also make your relationship stronger.
‘It’s about cuteness, curiosity and surprise,’ says Ness. ‘In relationships, many therapists focus on teaching couples to be curious about each other.
‘The trend is putting this relationship advice together in the form of an emoji, where couples or those dating can share OwO if they find something interesting and want to know more.’
For example, OwO would be ideal to send if you want to know more about a sexually suggestive message your partner or hookup has just sent you.
Say your SO has said they want to take your clothes off later, send OwO as a response, and your partner will realise you’re turned on, receptive to the idea, and want to know more.
While this OwO phrase may seem quite new to some of you – it sure did to us – the use of emojis to dirty talk is about as ancient as the Nokia brick.
‘Sometimes it can be easier to use an emoji or abbreviation than describe in text what someone is feeling erotically,’ says Ness.
If you struggle with articulating yourself when it comes to dirty talk, phrases and emojis like OwO can actually have a very positive impact on your relationship.
Ness adds: ‘Finding words for erotic desire can be tough and many aren’t taught how to talk in detail about their desires.
‘There’s also a downside to detail in dirty talk as it can be too detailed and less action-focused. Short forms of dirty talk can feel more action-filled, passionate, and immediate.’
But Ness says it’s important to use OwO, alongside other forms of sextual intimacy.
She explains: ‘Sometimes it can make some feel they aren’t listened to. It’s important to still have longer and more intimate conversations and interactions
alongside shorter emoji texts.
‘Emojis can also have different uses and some people may understand them different, so it can lead to confusion.’
Miscommunication during sex and sexting is something we’re pretty sure we all want to avoid, so definitely elaborate once you’ve used OwO – just to be safe.
Ness adds: ‘Remember voice notes, pictures, and face-to-face conversations. Get curious about something together, such as exploring a new form of date night together.
‘Keep talking about things you struggle with together and wish to work on.’
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