More TikTok Shorthand: What Does “ML” Mean On The App?

Very often, explanations of the acronyms and abbreviations used on TikTok require an “adult content” warning. Thankfully, this one doesn’t.

When you’re surfing your feed and come across a TikTok post that includes a reference to “ML,” you might initially think about the unit of measurement (usually written as “mL” and standing for milliliters) or a reference to a TikTok user’s mother-in-law (which is generally abbreviated as MIL rather than ML).

When you consider the context of the TikTok content, though, it’s probably apparent that the poster isn’t referring to a liquid that has to be measured — and the warm feelings expressed in the TikTok video aren’t normally attached to mothers-in-law.

So, what the heck does ML stand for?

The Meaning of “ML” on TikTok

The use of “ML” in TikTok videos is shorthand for “My Love.”

It’s seen more often in direct messages meant solely for the object of a user’s affections, but it does also show up in posts when someone is proclaiming their love for their partner or boo. Those who are more casual in their language may also use ML while addressing really good friends, or even to express thanks to someone who has done them a solid.

ML is occasionally used on TikTok to stand for other “Much Love,” or even the game “Mobile Legends: Bang Bang,” but that’s rare. Consider the context and then substitute the phrase “My Love,” and you’ll have usually made the right guess.