When you see “LOA” pop up in a text, email, or online post, it might leave you wondering, “What does LOA mean?” Don’t worry you’re not alone. “LOA” is one of those acronyms with multiple meanings, and its true definition depends entirely on context.
In this article, we break down the meanings of LOA, from its most common uses in the workplace to its newer slang and social media interpretations. Whether you’re reading a message from HR or scrolling through TikTok, you’ll soon know exactly what “LOA” means and when to use it.
What Does LOA Mean in Professional Settings?
The most common meaning of LOA is Leave of Absence. This term is used in professional or academic contexts. A Leave of Absence refers to a temporary break from work, school, or duties due to personal, medical, or family reasons.
For example:
“She took an LOA to care for her newborn.”
Employers and schools usually have formal LOA policies, and it often require written approval. Read more slang meanings here.
LOA in Slang and Internet Culture
LOA can also mean Laughing Out Angry, a rare internet slang used to express a mix of humor and frustration.
For example:
“He failed the test after studying all week… LOA 😤😂”
This meaning isn’t as popular as LOL or LMAO, but it occasionally appears in niche communities or sarcastic conversations online.
LOA in Spiritual Circles: Law of Attraction
Another widely known definition is the Law of Attraction. In the world of self-help and manifestation, the Law of Attraction is the belief that positive or negative thoughts bring corresponding experiences into a person’s life.
For example:
“According to LOA, I can manifest success through positive thinking.”
This interpretation is very common on YouTube, Reddit, TikTok, and other platforms centered on personal development.
Is LOA Safe to Use?
Absolutely. LOA is considered a safe acronym in most settings. However, always be mindful of context:
In professional communication, it likely means a Leave of Absence
In online groups, it may refer to the Law of Attraction
In texting slang, it could jokingly mean Laughing Out Angry
Other Possible Meanings of LOA
Besides the three main ones, here are a few niche or alternate meanings:
Letter of Authorization – permission to act on someone else’s behalf.
Lords of Acid is an electronic music band.
Lines of Action is a strategy board game.
How LOA Is Used in Texting
In texting, LOA is rarely used compared to LOL or BRB, but when it is, it’s often as:
“Laughing Out Angry” (sarcastic)
“Law of Attraction” (in motivational chats)
“Leave of Absence” (in formal or school conversations)
LOA on Social Media Platforms
On social media, #LOA hashtags often relate to Law of Attraction content:
Quotes
Vision boards
Manifestation affirmations
It’s also used in workplace-related discussions for Leave of Absence policies.
LOA Meaning Explained (Vertical Format)
Field | Details |
Acronym | LOA |
Stands For | Leave of Absence / Law of Attraction / Laughing Out Angry |
Brief Description | Acronyms with multiple meanings in work, spirituality, and slang |
Antonym | Presence / Realism / Seriousness |
Synonym | Break / Manifestation / LOL (depending on use) |
Alternative Meaning | Letter of Authorization, Lords of Acid, Lines of Action |
Emotion | Neutral / Positive / Sarcastic |
Safe for Work | Yes |
Safe for Children | Yes |
Emojis | 😤😂✨📅 |
Trending Date | 2023–2025 (especially in LOA law of attraction content) |
Texting Meaning | Laughing Out Angry (rare) |
Social Media Meaning | Law of Attraction |
Conclusion
LOA is a versatile acronym that can mean different things depending on where and how it’s used. Whether you’re referencing a leave of absence, diving into spiritual manifestation, or texting sarcastically, understanding the context is key.