Slang keeps evolving, and staying updated helps you connect better with people online and offline. One acronym you’ve probably seen floating around in texts, on TikTok, or even on dating apps is WTMS. At first glance, it can look confusing—but once you know the meaning, it all clicks. This article takes you deep into WTMS meaning, its history, different contexts, and how to respond naturally.
Definition & Meaning of WTMS
WTMS stands for “What’s the Move, Sis?”
- “What’s the move”: a slang phrase meaning “What’s happening?” or “What’s the plan?”
- “Sis”: a casual, friendly word, originally from African American Vernacular English (AAVE), often used as a term of endearment between friends.
Put together, WTMS is an informal way of asking someone what the plan is—whether it’s for the night, a hangout, or just what they’re up to.
Variations of WTMS
- WTM – “What’s the Move?” (without “sis”).
- WTMM – “What’s the Move, Man?” (less common, male variation).
- WTMU – “What’s the Move, You?” (rare, seen in small circles).
These variations keep the same meaning but adapt to who you’re talking to.
Background & History
Like many slang terms, WTMS has roots in AAVE (African American Vernacular English). The phrase “What’s the move?” has been used since the early 2000s in urban communities, especially in nightlife, to ask where the party or gathering was happening.
- Early 2000s: Phrase popular in spoken conversations within hip-hop and Black communities.
- 2010s: Social media spread slang quickly; phrases like “What’s the move?” became common among Millennials and Gen Z.
- Mid-2010s: Addition of “Sis” gave the acronym a playful, gender-inclusive twist.
- Present day: WTMS is widely recognized across texting, gaming, TikTok, Instagram, Twitter (X), and dating apps.
This cultural journey shows how slang from AAVE often transitions into mainstream language, shaping how younger generations communicate.
Usage in Different Contexts
WTMS doesn’t have a single fixed meaning. Its tone and purpose depend heavily on the platform or situation. Let’s explore the main contexts where people use WTMS.
Texting & Social Media
In texting and casual social media exchanges, WTMS is shorthand for checking in with friends.
Examples in texting:
- “Hey, WTMS tonight? Are we still hitting that new bar?”
- “Just got off work, WTMS?”
On TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat, WTMS often appears in captions, memes, or stories. For example:
- TikTok: “POV: your friend hits you with a late-night WTMS.”
- Instagram: A story post with a picture of friends ready to go out with the caption “WTMS 👀.”
Here, WTMS serves as a casual conversation starter or a way to sync plans.
Gaming Communities
Gamers use WTMS in a slightly different way. Instead of asking about social plans, it’s about strategy or the next in-game move.
Examples in gaming chats:
- “We cleared that level, WTMS now?”
- “Squad regrouped—WTMS?”
On Discord, Twitch, and in-game chat rooms, WTMS is a quick shorthand for coordination. It saves time in fast-paced multiplayer environments.
Dating Apps (Tinder, Bumble, Hinge)
On dating platforms, WTMS often comes across as a casual opener or a way to move a chat toward real-life plans.
Examples:
- Tinder bio message: “So WTMS this weekend? 👀”
- Bumble opener: “WTMS after work? Drinks?”
While casual and flirty, WTMS on dating apps has a double edge. Some people see it as smooth and relaxed, while others find it lazy if used without context.
Pro Tip: If you use WTMS on a dating app, always follow it up with specifics (e.g., “WTMS Friday night? Thinking sushi and karaoke”).
Common Misconceptions About WTMS
Many people misunderstand WTMS when they see it for the first time. Here are the most common misconceptions:
- ❌ “WTMS means ‘What’s the Matter, Sis?’” – Incorrect. That’s a guess some make because it looks similar, but it’s not used that way.
- ❌ “It’s only for women.” – Wrong. Anyone can use WTMS, regardless of gender. “Sis” is playful and often gender-neutral.
- ❌ “It always means partying.” – Not true. It can also mean “What are you up to?” or “What’s next?” even in casual or gaming contexts.
Similar Terms & Alternatives
WTMS isn’t the only acronym for checking plans. Let’s compare it with similar slang.
| Acronym | Full Form | Meaning | Tone/Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| WTMS | What’s the Move, Sis? | Asking about plans casually/friendly | Playful, casual, flirty |
| WTM | What’s the Move? | Asking about what’s happening | Neutral, general |
| WYD | What You Doing? | Asking about current activity | Casual, often personal |
| HBU | How ‘Bout You? | Asking in return | Neutral, polite, general |
This table shows that WTMS is more playful and specific than WYD or HBU.
How to Respond to WTMS
Your reply to WTMS depends on the context and who’s asking.
Friendly Response Examples
- “Not much, just chilling. WTMS with you?”
- “We’re meeting at 9, come through.”
Flirty Response Examples (Dating Apps)
- “The move is you picking a spot 😉.”
- “How about sushi and karaoke? WTMS?”
Neutral/Professional Response (if misused)
- “I think you meant to message a friend. Let me know if this is work-related.”
Tip: Match the tone of the person who sent it. If it’s casual, stay casual. If it’s flirty, lean into it.
Regional & Cultural Differences
Slang doesn’t always translate the same way across cultures.
- United States: Common in cities and among Gen Z/Millennials.
- UK & Canada: Less common but understood by people active on TikTok, Instagram, or Twitter (X).
- Non-native English speakers: May confuse WTMS with other meanings like “What’s the matter.”
Also, “sis” in some regions may feel unusual if not part of the culture. Some people replace it with “bro,” “man,” or simply drop it.
Is WTMS Offensive?
By itself, WTMS is not offensive. It’s meant to be casual, playful, and friendly.
However:
- Some may dislike being called “Sis” if they don’t identify with it.
- Tone matters—if WTMS is sent in a dismissive way, it can sound rude.
The general rule: if you’re unsure whether someone is comfortable with slang, stick to a neutral alternative like “WTM” or “WYD.”
Professional Use of WTMS
Should you ever use WTMS in a workplace or professional setting? No.
- In emails, Slack, or LinkedIn messages, it looks unprofessional.
- Acronyms like WTMS can confuse older colleagues or people outside internet culture.
- Instead, use alternatives like:
- “What’s the plan?”
- “What’s the next step?”
- “What’s on the agenda?”
Case Study: In 2023, a junior employee sent “WTMS for today’s meeting?” in a Slack channel at a marketing firm. The manager didn’t understand and had to ask for clarification, which caused mild embarrassment. This shows how using internet slang in the wrong context can backfire.
FAQs About WTMS
Is WTMS only for women?
No. Anyone can use it. “Sis” is a gender-neutral term in internet culture.
Can I use WTMS with guys?
Yes. Some even use “WTMM” (What’s the move, man?).
Is WTMS outdated in 2025?
Not at all. It’s still widely used across TikTok, Instagram, and texting.
Can WTMS be flirty?
Yes. On dating apps, WTMS is often playful and flirty, depending on context.
Is there a difference between WTMS and WTM?
Yes. WTM is more neutral, while WTMS adds a friendly, playful twist.
Conclusion
Slang like WTMS (What’s the Move, Sis?) keeps conversations lively and connected. Born from AAVE and spread through social media, gaming, and dating apps, WTMS has become part of everyday communication. It’s flexible, fun, and full of personality.
The key takeaway? Context is everything. In texts and online chats, it’s casual and friendly. In gaming, it signals strategy. On dating apps, it can be flirty. But in professional settings, it doesn’t belong.
Language evolves, and slang like WTMS shows how culture, community, and technology shape the way we talk. Next time someone drops a WTMS in your chat, you’ll know exactly how to respond.
Ember Clark is an expert blogger passionate about cartoons, sharing captivating insights, trends, and stories that bring animation to life for fans worldwide.