You’ve probably seen it before – at the end of a message, tucked into a card, or in the caption of a sweet post: XOXO. It’s short, charming, and instantly familiar. But what does it actually mean, and where did it come from?
For some, it’s just a cute sign-off. For others, it’s a little code for affection. But behind those four letters is a surprisingly layered history that stretches back centuries.
What Does XOXO Mean, Anyway?
At its simplest, XOXO is shorthand for hugs and kisses. The “X” represents a kiss, and the “O” is a hug. It’s affectionate, casual, and sweet – the kind of sign-off that wraps your words in a little extra love.
But the symbolism behind it? That’s where it gets interesting.
The Kiss: Why "X" Means a Kiss
The use of “X” as a stand-in for a kiss actually goes way back – like, Middle Ages back. In medieval times, most people couldn’t read or write, so they used an "X" as a signature on documents. After marking the “X,” they’d often kiss the paper to show sincerity and faith – kind of like sealing it with a kiss.
Over time, the “X” evolved from a sign of honesty to a symbol of affection. And today, it’s a go-to for expressing love, flirtation, or just general warm fuzzies.
The Hug: Why "O" Stands for a Hug
The “O” part came along later, and there’s a bit more mystery around it. One theory is that it originated from Jewish immigrants in the U.S. who used an “O” to sign documents – partly to distinguish from the Christian “X,” and partly because the shape looked like arms encircling someone.
Another (more visual) theory? The circle of the “O” simply looks like a hug – open arms wrapping around someone you care about.
Whatever the true origin, the pairing of X and O caught on. By the early 20th century, “XOXO” was popping up in letters, postcards, and eventually text messages and emails.
Why XOXO Still Matters
In a world full of emojis, abbreviations, and voice notes, there’s something enduringly charming about “XOXO.” It’s a little nostalgic, a little romantic, and totally universal. It can mean I love you, I miss you, you’re my person, or even just thinking of you.
And unlike a heart emoji, it doesn’t feel too formal or too flirty – it’s just right.
Pop culture helped keep it alive, too. If you watched Gossip Girl, you probably still hear Kristen Bell’s voice saying, “XOXO, Gossip Girl.” That one phrase turned XOXO into something iconic – a mix of mystery, glamour and just the right amount of drama. It gave the phrase a fresh, modern spin that stuck around long after the credits rolled.
XOXO in Love, Celebration and Jewelry
You’ll see XOXO pop up in everything from texts and love notes to Valentine’s Day cards and wedding décor. It’s also become a popular motif in jewelry, with delicate Xs and Os engraved into necklaces, rings, or bracelets – a subtle, wearable way to say I love you without saying a word.
It’s timeless, it’s sweet, and it still makes people smile. Just like a good hug. Or a kiss.
Maybe that’s the real magic of XOXO – it captures love in its simplest form. Whether it’s scribbled at the end of a note, said as an inside joke or worn close to the heart, those four little letters carry more meaning than they let on. A reminder that love lives in the details and the moments we share.
