When you see the term COB pop up in a text message, dating app bio, or adult forum, it can be confusing - especially if you’re not familiar with slang used in sexual or romantic contexts. Many people assume it’s a typo or a code for something more explicit. But COB isn’t just random letters. It has a real, widely understood meaning in certain circles - and knowing it can help you avoid misunderstandings or awkward situations.
What COB Actually Means in Sexual Contexts
COB stands for Close of Business. At first glance, that sounds like something you’d hear in an office meeting, not in a sext. But in dating and sexual contexts, COB has been repurposed to mean “Come Over Tonight”.
This slang emerged in early 2010s text-based flirting and became popular through apps like Tinder, Snapchat, and Instagram DMs. It’s a shorthand way to suggest intimacy without being too direct. Instead of saying, “Can you come over?” - which can feel heavy or pressured - someone might text “COB?” as a playful, low-pressure invitation.
It’s often used when both people have already built some level of attraction or physical chemistry. For example:
- “Had a great night. COB?”
- “You’re still up? COB?”
- “Work’s over. COB?”
The tone is casual, flirtatious, and usually implies mutual interest. It’s not a demand - it’s an open-ended suggestion. The other person can say yes, no, or even joke back with “COB? What’s the password?”
Why People Use COB Instead of Plain Language
There’s a reason people avoid saying “come over” outright. In modern dating, ambiguity can feel safer. Saying “COB” lets you test the waters without risking rejection. If the other person doesn’t respond, you can pretend it was just a typo or a joke. If they do respond positively, you’ve already signaled interest without sounding desperate.
It also adds a layer of playfulness. In a world where dating messages often feel transactional - “u up?” “wanna hook up?” - COB feels more like a shared inside joke. It’s a way to keep things light while still communicating intent.
Some users even pair COB with emojis to soften the tone: “COB? 😏” or “COB? 🍷” - turning a potential pressure point into a moment of flirtation.
COB vs Other Common Slang Terms
COB isn’t the only slang term used to suggest physical intimacy. Here’s how it stacks up against others:
| Term | Meaning | Tone | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| COB | Close of Business / Come Over Tonight | Playful, casual, low-pressure | Dating apps, texting, DMs |
| CV | Come Over | Direct, blunt | Texts between established partners |
| NSA | No Strings Attached | Transactional, detached | Hookup apps, casual encounters |
| FWB | Friends With Benefits | Relationship-labeled | Long-term casual arrangements |
| TTYL | Talk to You Later | Neutral, non-committal | Early-stage flirting |
Unlike NSA or FWB - which define the nature of the relationship - COB is purely about timing and action. It doesn’t label the encounter. It just says, “I’m free now. Are you?”
When COB Might Be Misunderstood
Not everyone knows what COB means. Some people, especially older generations or those less active on dating apps, might think it’s a typo for “Cob” as in the snake, or even “Cobalt.” In rare cases, someone might misread it as “C.O.B.” meaning “Chief of Staff” or “Certificate of Birth.”
If you’re unsure whether the other person understands the term, don’t assume. A simple follow-up like “Just meant come over 😉” clears things up without killing the vibe.
Also, context matters. If you’ve only exchanged a few messages and someone texts “COB?”, it might feel abrupt. That’s not necessarily a red flag - but it does signal they’re looking for something physical, fast. If you’re not ready for that, it’s okay to respond with, “I’m not quite there yet,” or “Let’s hang out first.”
COB in Real-Life Scenarios
Here’s how COB plays out in real conversations:
Scenario 1: Two people on a date
After a fun night out, one person says: “That was awesome. COB?”
The other replies: “I’m exhausted but… maybe tomorrow?”
Result: The invitation is accepted with a delay - showing interest without rushing.
Scenario 2: Texting after a mutual friend’s party
They send: “Still thinking about that kiss. COB?”
You reply: “You’re lucky I live 20 mins away 😏”
Result: Playful, flirtatious, and clearly mutual.
Scenario 3: One-sided use
You text: “COB?”
They don’t reply for two days.
They finally say: “Sorry, I thought you meant ‘Close of Business’ lol.”
Result: A misunderstanding - but now you both know what COB means in this context.
Is COB Still Used in 2026?
Yes - but it’s fading slightly. New slang like “COT” (Come Over Tonight) and “COS” (Come Over Soon) are gaining ground, especially among Gen Z users who want even shorter acronyms. “COB” still works, especially in older millennial circles, but it’s no longer the most common phrase.
Still, if you see it in a bio or message, you’ll know what it means. And if you use it yourself, you’re speaking a language many people understand - especially in cities like London, Sydney, or New York, where dating apps are part of daily life.
What to Do If You’re Unsure
Here’s a quick rule of thumb:
- If someone sends you “COB?” and you’re interested - reply with a smiley or “Maybe 😏” to keep it light.
- If you’re not interested - say something like, “I’m not looking for that right now, but thanks!” - clear and kind.
- If you’re confused - ask. “Wait, COB? What’s that mean?” - most people will explain it without judgment.
There’s no shame in not knowing slang. The key is staying open, respectful, and curious.
Final Thoughts
COB is more than just a shortcut. It’s a cultural artifact of how people navigate desire in the digital age - trying to be direct without being pushy, intimate without being overwhelming. It’s a reminder that even in casual encounters, communication still matters.
Whether you’re the one sending it or the one receiving it, understanding COB helps you read the room. And sometimes, that’s all you need to turn a text into a moment.
Does COB always mean 'Come Over Tonight' in sexual contexts?
Most of the time, yes - especially in dating apps and texts between people who are already flirting. But context matters. In professional settings, COB still means ‘Close of Business.’ If someone uses it unexpectedly, it’s okay to ask for clarification.
Is COB considered inappropriate or too forward?
It depends on the relationship. If you’ve already been flirting or have physical chemistry, COB feels natural. If you’ve only matched once or haven’t met, it can come off as abrupt. The tone and timing matter more than the word itself.
Can COB be used by anyone, regardless of gender or orientation?
Absolutely. COB is gender-neutral and works the same way for straight, gay, lesbian, or non-binary people. It’s about action, not identity. Anyone can use it to suggest a physical meeting.
Are there other slang terms like COB that mean the same thing?
Yes. COT (Come Over Tonight), COS (Come Over Soon), and even “U up?” are similar. Some people say “Came over?” as a past-tense version. But COB remains one of the most recognizable because of its double meaning - it sounds official, which makes it feel less loaded.
Should I use COB in my dating profile?
It’s risky. Profiles should be clear and inviting, not cryptic. Using COB might confuse people who don’t know the term. Better to say something like, “Let’s grab coffee - then see where it goes.” It’s warmer and leaves room for connection beyond just physical.