- A modern euphemism, mainly used by younger adults, for inviting someone to one's home with the intention or hope of initiating casual sex. The invitation sounds innocent (watch Netflix and relax) but carries a strong sexual undertone.
Explanation
Origin
- Emerged on Black Twitter around 2014-2015 and rapidly became an internet meme and widespread slang.
- It plays on the common, mundane activity of watching streaming services (Netflix) and relaxing (chill), using chill as a coy suggestion of intimacy. The humor lies in the widely understood, unspoken sexual intent.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal (Invitations with potential sexual intent):
- Wanna come hang at my place?
- Come over later?
- What are you up to tonight? (Often precedes an invite)
More Direct (Invitations):
- Wanna hook up?
- Come back to mine? (UK/Aus)
Genuinely Innocent Invitation:
- Want to come over and watch [Specific Movie/Show]?
- Let's hang out and watch Netflix at my place. (Clarity helps)
Situational Appropriateness
- Highly informal. Used primarily among peers (esp. younger adults), often via text, dating apps, or casual conversation.
- Completely inappropriate in formal, professional, or polite company. Assumes shared understanding of the sexual euphemism.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- While widely known as a euphemism, genuine misunderstanding is possible, especially across generations or cultures less exposed to the meme. Using it innocently can lead to awkwardness if the other person assumes sexual intent. Conversely, the inviter should be aware the invitee might take it literally.
Examples
- He texted asking if I wanted to come over for Netflix and chill.
- My roommate keeps bringing dates back for 'Netflix and chill'.
- Is 'Netflix and chill' actually about watching Netflix anymore?
Dialogue
Jake: (Texting) Hey, quiet night in? Netflix and chill?
Lisa: (Texting back) Lol depends... is there actually a movie involved or just the 'chill' part? 😉
Jake: Haha, we can start with a movie...
Lisa: Okay, deal. See you around 8.
Social Media Examples
- Meme: Picture of someone looking disappointed. Caption: Asked for Netflix and chill, and they actually made me watch a 3-hour documentary.
- Tweet: My ideal Friday night is literal Netflix and chill. Snacks, comfy clothes, zero expectations. #introvert
- Tinder Bio: Let's Netflix and chill? I'll bring the snacks. (Assumed sexual intent).
Response Patterns
- Acceptance (understanding implication): Sounds good 😉. / Okay, what time?
- Rejection (understanding implication): Haha, maybe another time. / I'm not really looking for that.
- Playing Innocent/Clarifying: Sure, what are we watching? (Can be genuine confusion or a way to gauge intent).
- Calling it out: You mean *actually* watch Netflix, or...?
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
- If accepted: Arrange logistics (time, place).
- If rejected: The inviter usually backs off or suggests an alternative plan.
- If clarified: The inviter might confirm intentions (subtly or directly) or pivot to an innocent plan.
Conversation Starter
- Yes, it functions as a specific type of invitation or proposition.
Intonation
- Often said playfully, suggestively, knowingly, or ironically. Emphasis on the whole phrase, perhaps with a slight lift or pause. NETFLIX and CHILL?
Generation Differences
- Primarily used and understood by Millennials and Gen Z. May be unknown or misunderstood by older generations (Baby Boomers, some Gen X). Gen X likely aware via internet culture.
Regional Variations
- Originated in the US but globally understood among younger demographics due to internet/meme culture.