DictionarINQ: DINK
DINK
/dingk/
Noun
Abbreviation for ‘dual income, no kids’; a household (or a couple) wherein both adults earn money while having no children
WHAT IS “DINK”
ORIGIN
Along with the changing wind of the economy, the slang ‘DINK’ is lately gaining attention on the Internet and has become a trending lifestyle for this generation’s professional couples or households.
According to Sarah Hanlon, a journalist from New York and an entertainment and celebrity editor for The Knot, ‘DINK’ is a resurfacing concept that can be traced back to the 1980s when the popular slang term “yuppie” (short for “young, urban professionals”) had its cultural hit.
The ‘DINK’ lifestyle may also be of choice or by circumstances, depending on the household or couple (Fidelity viewpoints, 2025). The most common reason for couples who are ‘DINK’ by choice is the benefit of having extra time to pursue personal interests or career, and having less financial responsibilities as well.
As the ‘DINK’ lifestyle has been on the rise, tons of rooted slangs have emerged, such as ‘DINKWAD’ (dual income, no kids with a dog), ‘DINKWAC’ (dual income, no kids with a cat), DINKY (dual income, no kids yet), etc.
EXAMPLES
“A lot of working couples have been choosing pets over conceiving kids lately. Well, I do understand them being ‘DINKs’ as it gives them more time to pursue personal interests.”
“With the economy continuously fluctuating in this country, I don’t think having kids can be the best choice for my wife and me right now. Choosing a ‘DINK’ lifestyle might be a better choice.”





