rn

Rn means “right now.” It describes what’s happening at this moment, or adds urgency to a request.

What does rn mean?

Rn is short for “right now.” It can simply place something in the present (“I’m at the gym rn”) or stress how strongly you feel at the moment (“I need coffee rn”). It’s almost always written in lowercase.

How to use rn

• “Can’t talk rn, I’m in a meeting.”
• “I’m so hungry rn.”
• “This song is my whole personality rn.”
• “Where are you rn? We’re about to leave.”

Rn or RN?

In capitals, RN usually means “registered nurse,” a qualified nursing professional. In texts and social media, lowercase “rn” almost always means “right now.” If a message is about a hospital or a job title, read it as nurse; otherwise, it’s about time.

Where rn comes from

Rn is a texting shortcut that spread with phone messaging and social media. Its first use as “right now” isn’t documented.

Related terms

• Wyd: what (are) you doing?
• Wya: where you at?
• BRB: be right back.
• Fr: for real.

See more terms like this in our texting abbreviations guide.