- This is typically used during that awkward stage in a relationship where you are wondering if you are just friends, dating, or exclusive. It can be used as a noun: “Y’all need to DTR.” Or you can add a suffix to it, and use it as a verb: “I DTRed.” It encapsulates the awkward and nervous feelings associated with asking someone to define the relationship. Again, this is an example of text/cyber lingo transitioning to verbal slang. I think people say “DTR” instead of “define the relationship,” because it conceals the meaning from those who do not know what it means, specifically parents.
DTR (2)
acronym Verb and Noun
When you are unsure where you stand in a new relationship, so you ask your partner to define the relationship.
Etymology : initialism formed from the words “define the relationship.”
Source : “Y’all need to DTR.” (Friend, August 2017)
Last modified: 29 November 2017