Buzz
Explore the popular social media abbreviation
If you've come across the term “dink” on social platforms and wondered about its meaning, you're not alone. While there are several meanings for “dink,” the one currently trending on TikTok and Instagram is “dual income, no kids,” which refers to a couple where both partners work and have no children. Keep reading to dive deeper into the meaning and background of “dink,” as well as its other interpretations.
What is the meaning of “dink”?
“DINK” stands for “dual income, no kids” (or “double income, no kids”). It refers to a couple where both individuals are working and child-free. Beyond this, “dink” can also refer to a tennis or volleyball drop shot, a small boat or dinghy, or even a small bass fish.
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What does “DINK” mean?
“DINK” stands for “dual income, no kids” or “double income, no kids.” This term is used for couples who choose not to have children and both work well-paying jobs. Because they are child-free, they enjoy more disposable income, which allows them to live with a little more ease than many families with children.
- “Kathleen wants to marry Johan, but they don’t plan on having kids.” “So they’re going to be DINKs?”
- The term DINK typically describes couples who are child-free by choice or “empty nesters” — those whose children have grown up and moved out.
- There are a few variations of the acronym, such as:
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DINKY: “dual income, no kids yet,” referring to couples who are childless but plan to have children later
- GINK: “green inclinations, no kids,” used for people who decide not to have kids for environmental reasons
- DINKWAD: “double income, no kids, with a dog”
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DINKY: “dual income, no kids yet,” referring to couples who are childless but plan to have children later
Origins of the DINK Acronym
The DINK acronym originated in the 1980s. It was popularized during the rise of the yuppie (“young urban professional”) movement. The term referred to couples who prioritized career growth and enjoyed higher incomes without the responsibility of raising children.
- “Yuppie” was first used in the 1980s to describe a young professional working in an urban setting. Initially neutral, the term later gained negative connotations as it was associated with gentrification.
- The acronym saw increased use online during the Great Recession. Though it began in the '80s, the term gained momentum in the late 2000s as more individuals delayed or opted out of having children in favor of financial security.
DINK and the TikTok Trend
People on TikTok are living their #DINKera. The DINK trend remains a hot topic on social media, especially on TikTok, where couples proudly share that they’re in their “#DINKera.” In these viral videos (like this one), partners announce, "We’re DINKs," followed by a list of experiences they’re able to enjoy due to their childfree lifestyle and extra income (e.g., "We take 10 vacations every year").
- While it's unclear why this trend persists even after the Great Recession, it could be because not having children is becoming increasingly accepted, and more couples are opting for the childfree life.
- Statistics show that fertility rates in the U.S. are at historic lows, and the percentage of U.S. adults under 50 who say they likely won't have kids has risen by 10% from 2018 to 2023 (from 37% to 47%).
While many viewers love the DINK trend, not everyone is a fan. Many #DINKera videos are lighthearted, with viewers admiring the perks of a childfree life. However, there are anti-DINKs who criticize the mild, playful boasts of DINKs, like “We’re DINKs, and we spend our extra money on $8 lattes.”
- Anti-DINKs believe that DINKs will eventually regret not having children and express frustration that this trend is helping normalize and celebrate being childfree.
- On the other hand, many DINKs view their choice as an opportunity for personal growth and financial freedom. Plus, it’s easier on the wallet!
Other Meanings of “Dink”
“Dink” can also refer to a drop shot in tennis, pickleball, or volleyball. In these sports, “dink” is used both as a noun and a verb to describe a drop shot. The next time you're at a match or playing yourself, you might hear someone describe the ball as a “dink” if it drops just over the net, or use “dinking” to describe the act of hitting a drop shot.
- He dinked the ball over the net.
- What a perfect dink!
It’s also a slang term for male genitalia. “Dink” can be a crude term for a penis, often used in a derogatory way to describe a foolish or obnoxious person (similar to “pr*ck”). Use this word to insult someone acting like a jerk, but be cautious, as it can easily offend.
- Kevin is such a dink for speaking to you like that.
In fishing, a “dink” refers to a small bass. A bass that’s too small to legally keep is often called a “dink.” The next time you're out bass fishing, you can use “dink” to refer to the tiny catches.
- That dink is too small to keep; let it go. There are bigger ones swimming over there.
“Dink” can sometimes be used as a racial slur. While “dink” is usually harmless, it can carry negative connotations in certain contexts. Historically, it has been used as a derogatory term against Southeast Asians, particularly Vietnamese people. Be cautious when using this word to ensure it’s understood correctly and doesn't unintentionally offend anyone.
