STL Meaning in Slang - Decoding the Many Definitions of This 3-Letter Acronym

Decoding the Various Meanings of "STL" in Slang

STL is a three-letter acronym that has many different meanings in slang terminology. This abbreviation is used in informal conversation online, in text messages, and in youth culture.

Understanding the different definitions of STL will help you grasp pop culture references and interpret slang terms better. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover:

• The origins and history of STL
• Geographic location meanings
• Love, relationships and sexuality meanings
• Money and business meanings
• Illegal activity meanings
• Other miscellaneous meanings

Learn what people really mean when they use STL in everyday slang talk.

Origins of the Slang Term "STL"

STL stands for St. Louis, which is the largest metro area in the state of Missouri. This city name abbreviation dates back to at least the 1960s.

"STL" was popularized in hip hop culture as rappers referenced the city in lyrics. Over time, the acronym STL grew to represent much more than just the city itself.

Now STL has evolved into a flexible slang term with a wide range of meanings in modern vernacular. It is used creatively online and in youth lingo.

STL Meaning "St. Louis"

The original meaning of STL is St. Louis, Missouri. You'll see this referenced across social media, texting, and pop culture when people mention:

• Being from St. Louis
• Visiting St. Louis
• St. Louis sports teams - Cardinals, Blues, Rams
• St. Louis food dishes - gooey butter cake, toasted ravioli
• St. Louis attractions - Gateway Arch, Forest Park

This geographic meaning of STL is still widely used, especially among those familiar with the city.

Example

I'm flying home to STL for Thanksgiving - can't wait to get some Ted Drewes custard!

STL Meaning "Steal"

A common slang use of STL is as shorthand for "steal." It can reference:

• Shoplifting/petty theft
• Burglary
• Digital piracy - illegally downloading media
• Plagiarism
• Taking something without asking

People may use STL instead of "steal" to be discreet or suggest minor theft.

Examples

I didn't pay for this lipstick - I STL'd it from the drugstore.

My roommate STL'd my clothes without asking again!

STL Meaning "Sexually Transmitted Infection/Disease"

STL is sometimes used as slang for a sexually transmitted infection or STD. Often STL suggests:

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Syphilis
• Herpes
• HIV/AIDS

People may prefer to say "STL" rather than specify a specific STI due to privacy concerns or social stigma.

Examples

I need to get tested, I think my ex gave me an STL.

Use protection so you don't catch an STL!

STL Meaning "Soon To Leave"

In relationships, STL is used to mean "soon to leave" or leaving a partner or significant other. Reasons someone might say STL include:

• Unhappy in the relationship
• Found someone new
• Moving away soon
• Going away to college
• Joining military service

STL indicates the relationship will end in the near future.

Examples

Ever since Will got into his dream college, our relationship has been STL.

I think Alex has been cheating so I'm STL when our lease ends.

STL Meaning "Send the Location"

STL can be used in a threatening or aggressive way to tell someone to send or reveal their location. Reasons include:

• Arranging a fight
• Settling a disagreement
• Confrontation
• Criminal intent

STL is often seen in heated social media exchanges and texts.

Examples

You keep talking but won't show your face - STL!

If you have a problem let's meet up and handle this. STL.

Other Miscellaneous Slang Meanings of STL

STL has a wide range of other informal meanings including:

• Stoned - under the influence of marijuana
• Straight to lips - drinking straight from the bottle
• Suck the life - draining or wasted time/money
• Spend the loot - spending cash freely
• Shoot the line - flirting
• Send the link - requesting a URL to something

STL's flexible nature allows it to represent many phrases in shorthand form.

Examples

I got so STL at that party last night, I barely remember it.

Buying bottle service at the club is just STL - such a waste of cash.

That guy at the bar kept STL but I wasn't interested.

STL in Rap Lyrics & Pop Culture

You'll often hear STL referenced in rap, hip hop, and R&B song lyrics. Artists associate themselves with the city through:

• Mentioning STL in songs
• Repping St. Louis sports teams
• Name dropping STL locations
• Showing STL pride in music videos

Rappers who shout out STL include Nelly, Chingy, J-Kwon, Murphy Lee, and Sylvan LaCue among others.

As slang, you may also see STL used in movies, social media posts, memes, and among influencers trying to seem cool and trendy.

Using STL in Conversation

STL has so many slang meanings that context is key when using it in casual conversation:

• Spell it out fully first - "soon to leave" or "sexually transmitted infection"
• Clarify your exact intended meaning if it could seem unclear
• Avoid STL around those unfamiliar with slang
• Define STL if you hear it used in an ambiguous way

With youth slang constantly evolving, STL may gain even more definitions over time. But for now, this covers the major slang meanings of this common three-letter abbreviation.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.