RAT

Relationship Assuring Text. RAT's are SMS messages sent to convey approval of or delight in a previous social encounter with an individual of undefined relationship status with the sender. A RAT is most commonly employed after a first date where one or both parties are unsure about the perceived success of the other party. Such dates are often seen as "Awkward dates" by third parties. An exchange of RAT's sent the evening after a first date almost ensure a second date, effectively breaking the ice for more casual conversation. The effectiveness of "Morning RAT's" (RAT's sent the morning after a first date) are hotly debated because they are believed by some to close the deal, but can also be seen as a red flag.