Slide into the DMs

Etymology

Built on “DM,” the direct (private) message on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, with “slide into” conveying a smooth, angled entrance. The phrase spread in the mid-2010s and was cemented by memes and songs; it can be earnest or self-mocking, and applies to romance, networking, and pitching alike.

phrase · /slyd IN-too thuh DEE-emz/
To send someone a private direct message, usually with romantic or opportunistic intent.
What it names
It names the move from public interaction to a private channel — the shift from liking someone’s posts to messaging them directly. The word “slide” carries the whole tone: smooth, a little bold, hoping to seem casual while making an unmistakable approach.
Example
He finally slid into her DMs after months of just liking her stories.
Related idea
A close cousin of taking your shooter’s shot — both are bold approaches, but this one names the private channel used to make it.