The term "irl" is an abbreviation for "in real life." It is often used in online communication to differentiate between experiences or interactions that occur in the physical world, as opposed to those that happen in virtual spaces, such as social media or video games. It emphasizes the tangible and direct nature of real-life situations.
The abbreviation "irl" emerged from early internet and gaming culture, gaining popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Its usage increased along with the rise of social media and online communication platforms where users sought to clarify their discussions about real-life versus virtual interactions.