70 Instagram Terms Every User Should Know
Instagram is widely popular across different age groups, and while many are familiar with the platform, not all users, or IGers, are versed in its specific jargon.
If you're among those who aren't fully up to speed with all the Instagram lingo, you're in the right place. This article from Carisinyal will break down the essential terms every Instagram user should know. Here’s a rundown of some key terms:
1. Username (USN)

Your username is your unique Instagram handle, serving as your account's address. Each user must have a unique username, meaning once a username is taken, it can't be used again.
Usernames are prefixed with the “@” sign, like @carisinyal or @bacaterus. It's best to pick a username that's short and reflective of what you share. For instance, @carisinyal suggests a focus on technology. For personal accounts, it's wise to choose a username that's easy to remember.
2. Follower and Following

These terms are fundamental to Instagram, borrowed originally from Twitter. A follower is someone who subscribes to your updates, whereas following refers to the accounts you've subscribed to keep up with their posts.
There’s also "unfollow," which is when you or someone else chooses to stop following an account, perhaps because it's no longer interesting. Anyone can choose to unfollow an account for various reasons.
3. Comment

A comment is feedback left by users on a post. Comments are crucial as they show engagement, indicating that your content is compelling enough to prompt a reaction and discussion among your followers.
4. Like

Like its counterparts, Instagram features a "Like" button, a way for users to show appreciation for your posts. Naturally, engaging content tends to gather more likes from various users.
5. Notifications

Instagram's Notifications function similarly to other platforms. This feature compiles alerts about activities on your account, ensuring you don't miss any updates. To check your notifications, just click the "heart" icon in the Activity Feed.
6. Bio

Instagram provides a section for each user to share a brief description of themselves through a Bio, short for biography. This makes it easier for other IGers to get a quick sense of who you are.
For instance, a high school student passionate about photography might have a bio like: “High schooler with a love for photography.” This gives anyone viewing your profile a snapshot of your identity without going into too much detail. Keep your bio short, clear, and to the point.
7. Caption and Hashtag

Captions are short descriptions you can add to your photos or videos on Instagram, helping viewers understand the context of your posts.
They often include hashtags, which aid in searching for and categorizing posts. Hashtags help foster trends or group similar content, such as #gadget, #techno, or #smartphone for tech-related posts.
Most users strive to keep their captions brief and straightforward. Some opt to use fewer hashtags to maintain an aesthetic look in their posts.
8. Feed

The Feed is essentially your Instagram gallery, displaying all the photos and videos you've uploaded. Many IGers meticulously curate their Feed to make it aesthetically pleasing and organized.
9. Instagram Stories

This feature lets you post content that disappears after 24 hours, making it a temporary way to share your daily activities or moments. Instagram Stories has become increasingly popular, often used even more than the main feed for sharing updates.
10. Geotag/Location

Ever noticed the 'location' tag on posts? That's a Geotag. It lets you add a location to your uploads, like tagging a restaurant when you post a photo of your meal. This feature helps you share exactly where you are with your followers.
11. Ghost Followers

Ghost followers, or 'ghosties,' are followers who never interact with your posts, meaning they don't like or comment. Think of them as silent observers of your Instagram activity.
12. News Feed

The News Feed is where you can catch up on the latest posts from those you follow. It's essentially the home page of Instagram. To access it, just tap the home icon at the bottom left of your screen.
13. Archive

Located in the settings menu, the Archive feature allows you to hide certain posts from your feed or save your Instagram Stories beyond the 24-hour limit. It’s useful for keeping track of past content without deleting anything.
14. Nametag

Nametag is a handy feature that lets you add friends easily by scanning a code, eliminating the need to type out usernames.
15. Insights

Insights provide statistical data on how your posts and Instagram Stories perform. This tool gives you details about your posts’ reach, influence, and the demographics of your followers.
16. Reach

Reach refers to the number of people who see your posts within a given timeframe, helping you understand how far your content is spreading.
17. Impressions

Impressions measure how many times your content is viewed on Instagram, including repeat views from the same user. It’s a way to track the visibility of your posts and Stories.
18. Engagement

Engagement tracks how actively users interact with your content through likes, comments, and saves. This metric helps gauge the connection and response of your audience to your posts.
19. Saved

The "Saved" feature on Instagram allows you to bookmark posts from others so you can revisit them later. This can be handy for content that might be useful in the future.
Additionally, the number of times a post is saved is tracked under "Engagement" statistics, which helps show how often users save your posts.
20. Private

"Private" means setting your Instagram account so only your followers can view your posts. If you enable this option, your account becomes locked, indicated by a padlock icon, meaning only approved followers can see your content.
This setting is commonly referred to as having a "padlocked" account and helps users maintain their privacy, especially for sensitive content.
21. Filter

Filters on Instagram are tools that let you enhance your photos and videos. You can apply different effects to alter the mood of your images, from cool tones to bright and clear looks, when posting on your Instagram Feed or Stories.
Beyond just effects, on Stories, you can also add fun stickers or even create your own custom filters using third-party apps.
22. Mention and Tag

Mentioning someone involves including their Instagram handle in your post captions or stories as a shoutout or to link the content directly to them.
Tags are similar but used directly on photos or videos in your feed without mentioning them in captions. Both features are useful for engaging with other users and highlighting them in your content.
23. Repost

Reposting lets you share content from another user’s feed to your Instagram Story. To repost someone's story to your own, you need to be tagged in it first. For a step-by-step guide on how to do this, you can refer to articles on reposting on Instagram.
24. Reels

Instagram offers a fun feature called Reels, where you can create videos up to 60 seconds long, much like TikTok. Before uploading, users can edit their Reels by adding special effects and filters, adjusting the video speed, choosing different layouts, and more.
25. Algorithm

On Instagram, the algorithm helps tailor your feed to show posts that align with your interests based on your previous activities, like the posts you've liked or the accounts you interact with most.
Although the algorithm’s workings might seem complex, it’s essentially why Instagram often seems to know exactly what you like.
26. Highlights

Highlights allow you to save your Instagram Stories to your profile so they don’t disappear after 24 hours.
For instance, if you’re on a vacation and capture it in a Story, you can save it to Highlights instead of letting it vanish or just sit in your archive. Don’t forget to add a catchy cover to your Highlights to make them stand out.
27. Add Yours
The "Add Yours" feature is a sticker that lets you engage with other Instagram users around shared topics, like showing off photos from December or sharing your favorite songs.
While originally popular for fun and games, it’s important to be cautious as it was once misused to gather personal information, like birthdates. This feature also supports campaigns for social causes, accessible through Instagram Stories.
28. PM/DM (Private Message/Direct Message)

PM (Private Message) and DM (Direct Message) are terms used interchangeably on Instagram to describe messages sent privately between users. Whether you’re inquiring about products or just chatting, you can use either term to refer to these private conversations.
29. CC (Carbon Copy)
CC, or Carbon Copy, is used on Instagram and other platforms like emails and social media to indicate that a post is intended for additional viewers beyond the main recipient.
For instance, you might see it in captions where someone is tagging another user to draw attention, like "Check out these great deals at @cheapclothesstore cc: @storeowner."
On Instagram, CC is also used to credit the color correction done by third parties in video posts, denoted by writing “cc” in the video’s caption.
30. CF (Close Friends)

The Close Friends feature on Instagram allows you to create a private list of your closest contacts. Only people on this list can see the Stories you designate for Close Friends.
For example, if you post a Story from your travels and set it to Close Friends, only they can view it, keeping it hidden from everyone else.
31. Secc Acc (Seccond Account)

A Second Account is an additional Instagram account separate from your primary one. People often create a second account for sharing more personal content or for specific purposes like work, hobbies, or following certain interests.
Instagram’s Multiple Account feature lets you manage several accounts easily, even beyond just a second—you can have a third, fourth, and so on.
32. Collaboration

Instagram’s Collaboration feature lets you co-post content to the Feed with another user. When you use this feature, the content appears on both your account and the collaborator’s account simultaneously, eliminating the need to post the same content separately.
33. Vanish Mode

Vanish Mode in Instagram Direct Messages makes messages disappear after they’ve been read and the chat is closed. It’s ideal for sending messages that you want to keep confidential, as even if someone takes a screenshot, you’ll get a notification. Activating Vanish Mode is simple: just swipe up during a chat.
34. Poll

The Poll feature on Instagram Stories is a fun way to engage with your followers. You can ask a question and provide options for your followers to choose from. Instagram displays the results as a percentage, letting you see which option is most popular.
35. Frames

Frames are available for Instagram Stories to make your posts more visually appealing. They work like a Polaroid frame, initially displaying a blurred image that clears up when interacted with.
You can shake your phone or tap the frame to reveal the clear image underneath, and you can add a caption below to describe the photo.
36. Reveal

Reveal is a fun sticker you can use on Instagram Stories. It adds some mystery by blurring out your uploaded photos or videos for your friends or followers.
To see the hidden content, they’ll have to tap the “Message to reveal” sticker in your story, which means anyone who’s curious will need to send you a DM to unlock the photo or video.
You can use this feature to keep things playful when sharing vacation snaps, family moments, or photos with friends. It’s also a fun way to see who’s curious enough to send you a message.
37. Cutouts

The Cutouts sticker is another way to spice up your Instagram Stories. It’s similar to WhatsApp’s sticker feature, where you can automatically cut out objects and remove backgrounds. You can then add the cut-out image to your story to make it stand out.
You can also turn short videos into GIFs (moving images) using this feature. It’s especially cool because it can remove backgrounds from videos, leaving just the object to create a unique GIF.
38. Countdown

The Countdown sticker is great for building excitement for upcoming events or product launches. It’s often used by brands or influencers to get their followers to look forward to something.
You can also use it for personal events, like counting down to your birthday, so your friends can celebrate with you. The timer is flexible and can be set for anything from a few hours to days or even months.
39. Endorsement/Endorse and Promote
Endorsements are all about promoting products or services, and they’ve become very common on Instagram. Some users have even turned this into a career, but usually, only those with a large following get involved in endorsements.
Another related term is "promote" or "paid promotion," which refers to users being paid to promote something. Payment can be in the form of money or products, depending on the agreement.
While "promote" usually implies payment, endorsements might not always involve getting paid. For example, some people promote nonprofit causes like donation campaigns without expecting compensation.
40. Influencers

An influencer is someone on Instagram with a huge following, often ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of followers. These users are highly popular and have a significant impact on their audience.
Because these influencers have such a big presence on the platform, they often make money by promoting products or services, earning through endorsements and sponsored posts. Many influencers have verified accounts (with a blue tick), showing that they’re officially recognized by Instagram.
41. Macro-Influencer

A Macro-Influencer is similar to a regular influencer, but with an even bigger presence on social media, especially Instagram. Influencers can be divided into different levels based on the number of followers they have, and this often helps brands decide who to work with.
For instance, a Macro-Influencer is someone who has between 100,000 and over 1 million followers. With this large following, they can have a massive influence and reach a wider audience, which makes big brands take notice.
42. Micro-Influencer

A Micro-Influencer is a middle-tier influencer, with followers ranging from 1,000 to 100,000. Even though they have fewer followers compared to Macro-Influencers, they still have a strong influence, especially over their loyal audience.
Micro-Influencers often focus on specific niches, such as beauty, photography, fitness, or other areas they’re passionate about. This makes them appealing to brands looking to target a more specific market.
43. Nano-Influencer
Nano-Influencers are at the smallest level, with 1,000 followers or less. While their reach is more limited, they can still have a big impact on their followers.
Brands often choose Nano-Influencers because they are more affordable to work with but can still provide great results, especially for niche audiences.
44. Foodporn

If you’re hearing the term "foodporn" for the first time, it’s not what you might think. It has nothing to do with anything inappropriate. Instead, foodporn is all about showcasing delicious food using creative photography.
The hashtag #foodporn is commonly used on Instagram to help users find mouth-watering food photos and recommendations that look so good, they make you drool.
45. Giveaway

A giveaway is when prizes are shared with people who follow certain rules or steps, often as part of a promotion. The main goal of giveaways is usually to increase followers, boost engagement, or raise awareness.
46. Swipe Up
Swipe Up is a feature in Instagram Stories that lets you add a link. When your followers watch a Story with this feature, all they have to do is swipe up on the screen to visit the link or website you’ve shared.
47. OOTD (Outfit Of The Day)
OOTD stands for Outfit of the Day, a term used worldwide by Instagram users. It simply means someone is showing off the clothes they’re wearing that day.
You’ll often see OOTD in the caption of a post, usually with a photo of the person in their outfit. This trend helps IGers share their fashion and make their Instagram feed look more stylish.
48. LFL (Like For Like)
LFL stands for Like For Like, a term used on Instagram when IGers want to exchange likes. Instagram’s "like" feature lets you show appreciation for someone’s post, and LFL is a way of asking others to like your post if you like theirs.
49. DMF (Do Mine First)
When someone replies with "DMF" to an LFL request, it means they want you to like their post first. For example, if A asks B for LFL, and B replies with "DMF," A has to like B’s post before B will return the favor and like A’s post.
50. F4F (Follow For Follow)
F4F, or Follow For Follow, is a way for Instagram users to ask each other to follow back. When A follows B, A might leave a comment saying "F4F" to ask B to follow them back. This is also sometimes called FFF (Follow For Follow).
51. TnF (Tap and Follow)
TnF, or Tap and Follow, is commonly used by online shops or accounts that advertise and sell products. It’s a way of asking Instagram users to follow certain accounts by simply tapping the follow button.
52. K/D (Keep or Delete)
Have you ever seen K/D on Instagram? This term is short for "Keep or Delete" and is used when someone wants advice from their followers. For example, if A posts something and adds K/D, it means they’re asking their followers whether they should keep the post or delete it.
53. TBT (Throwback Thursday)
TBT stands for Throwback Thursday, a popular hashtag on Instagram and other social media platforms. It’s used when someone posts an old photo or video on a Thursday.
Sometimes, users just use #TB (Throwback) without the Thursday part when they want to share an old memory.
54. Late post
Latepost is similar to TBT, but it doesn’t have to be on a specific day. It’s used when you upload an older photo or video that you didn’t post earlier.
For example, if you took a photo during a trip but only uploaded it a week later, you can use #latepost to let your followers know it’s an older picture you’re just now sharing.
55. SFS (Shoutout For Shoutout)
SFS stands for Shoutout for Shoutout. This is when two Instagram accounts, often ones that sell products, agree to promote each other.
For instance, account "A" selling shoes might give a shoutout to account "B" selling hats, and then account "B" will do the same for account "A." It’s a way of helping each other gain more followers.
56. R4R (Recent For Recent)
R4R stands for Recent For Recent, which is a way to invite others to like your latest Instagram post. In return, you'll like their most recent post too. It’s a mutual exchange of likes between users.
57. IB (I'm Back)
IB can mean “I’m Back” and is used when someone returns to Instagram after taking a break. So, if an account owner was inactive for a while and then starts posting again, they might use IB to announce their return.
IB can also stand for “Inspired By.” This is used when someone creates content that was influenced by another person. For example, an Instagram user might post a drawing and say, "This illustration is IB @instagrambajumurah," meaning the artwork was inspired by that account.
58. AC (Audio Credit)
AC stands for Audio Credit. It’s used to give credit to the creator of the audio content in a post, like a voice clip, song, music, or instrumental. When someone uses AC, they usually tag or mention the original creator of the audio.
59. Acc (Accept)
Acc is short for “Accept” and is used when someone is asking for approval, like accepting a friend request. On Instagram, this term is often used when someone asks to follow a private account and wants the account owner to approve their follow request.
For example, if A sends a follow request to a private account, A might ask the account owner to "acc" the request, meaning to accept the follow request.
60. Moots/Mutuals
Moots or Mutuals refers to accounts that follow each other back. This term is more commonly used on Twitter, but it can be applied on Instagram as well. On Instagram, people more often use terms like F4F (Follow For Follow), as mentioned earlier.
61. Inframe
"Inframe" is used to mention someone who appears in a photo or video. You usually see it in the caption when the content includes a friend or someone else in the shot.
For example, if you post a photo with a friend posing in it, you might write in the caption, “Inframe: @username,” tagging the friend who is in the picture.
62. Take Down
A "take down" happens when someone removes content from Instagram. For example, if a celebrity posts a picture that stirs up too much controversy, they might decide to take down the post to avoid further attention.
63. Delsoon
"Delsoon" is short for "delete soon." It’s usually added to a caption when the post is only meant to be up for a short time. For example, if someone shares an old photo but plans to delete it later, they might add "delsoon" to let followers know the post won’t stay up for long.
64. SC (Selection Credit)
SC stands for "Selection Credit" and is used to give credit to someone who helped choose a photo for your post. It’s usually included in the caption.
For instance, if you were unsure which picture to upload and a friend helped you pick, you could write in the caption, "SC by @username," giving them credit for selecting the image.
65. DT (Dedicated to)
DT stands for "Dedicated To" and is used when you create a video or post for someone special. For example, if you make a video for someone you care about, you might write, “DT @username” in the caption, showing that the video is dedicated to them.
66. OFC (Of Course)
OFC stands for "Of Course." It’s a term commonly used in online chats, not just on Instagram, to express agreement or confirmation of something.
67. OC (Overlay Credit)
OC stands for "Overlay Credit." This is used to give credit to someone who added an overlay to a video. For example, if you edit a video and your friend adds the overlay, when you post it, you should credit them by writing “OC by @username” in the caption.
68. QOTD/AOTD (Question Of The Day/Answer Of The Day)
QOTD stands for "Question of The Day," and it’s a way to invite your Instagram followers to ask you a question that you’ll answer the same day. The response is called AOTD, or "Answer of The Day."
69. CCP (Cute Cut Pro)
CCP refers to "Cute Cut Pro," a popular video editing app that people use to create Instagram content. While it’s not an Instagram-specific term, it’s often mentioned by users who make videos with it.
70. NFO (New Followers Only)
NFO stands for "New Followers Only." It’s used to indicate that a post or Instagram Story is meant specifically for new followers, to help them feel included and catch up on things they may have missed.
Not everyone is familiar with these Instagram terms, but this guide can help you understand some of the more uncommon ones. If you know of other terms, feel free to share them in the comments!