Love used to be simple—you liked someone, and you stayed with them. But in today’s dating world, things have become more complex, and so have the terms we use to describe them. Modern dating isn’t just about “we don’t talk anymore”—now, there’s a term for when someone disappears without explanation: ghosting. And if you’re unsure whether you’re even dating someone, that has a name too.
Funnily, it’s no longer just “dating” but a whole spectrum of relationship stages and situations, each with its own slang. We get it! Navigating this evolving landscape can feel overwhelming, but you’re here to learn. So take a chill pill as I’ve rounded up some of the most popular modern-day relationship slang to help you keep up.
1. Throning
Ever feel like someone’s dating you to boost their own reputation? That’s “throning”—like they’re putting you on a pedestal, but for their own social clout. It’s basically social climbing with a hint of romance!
2. Zombieing
Just when you thought they’d ghosted for good, they rise from the dead! Zombieing is when someone who ghosted you suddenly pops back into your life (usually with a “Hey stranger” or an out-of-the-blue like on your IG story). It’s like they just remembered you exist and think they can waltz back in. Spooky, right?
3. Breadcrumbing
This is when someone keeps you on the hook by dropping little “crumbs” of attention—just enough to keep you interested, but never enough to actually make a move. Think occasional texts, random likes, and sporadic comments that go nowhere. They’re not committed, but they don’t want you moving on either. Ugh!
4. Textlationship
Welcome to the world of relationships that exist only through texting! A textlationship is when you’re texting constantly, maybe even feel a strong connection, but it never translates to actual in-person dates or a real-life relationship. It’s like you’re together… but also not.
5. Digital Ex-pression
You know those social media posts that are clearly about an ex? Yep, that’s Digital Ex-pression. Not always subtle, but always entertaining to watch!
6. Groundhogging
Ever feel like you’re dating the same type over and over, hoping for different results each time? That’s groundhogging! It’s when you keep choosing the same kind of person repeatedly—whether it’s the “bad boy,” the artsy type, or the super ambitious one—only to find yourself in the same frustrating relationship pattern.
7. Benching
Picture this—you’re dating someone, things seem to be going okay, but they’re not fully committing. Instead, they keep you “on the bench,” checking in just enough to keep you interested, but never making solid plans or taking the relationship to the next level. It’s like you’re a backup option, waiting on the sidelines while they decide if they’re really into you or if someone “better” might come along.
8. Eclipsing
This is when someone you’re dating suddenly takes on all your hobbies, interests, and passions—almost like they’re eclipsing your personality with theirs! They’ll start mirroring everything you do, from your favorite yoga class to binge-watching your top Netflix shows, and even copying your style or slang.
9. Freak Matching
Find someone who matches your quirks, from your love of niche memes to that weird snack you eat at midnight. Freak Matching is all about finding someone as wonderfully weird as you!
10. Ghostercoaster
It’s not just ghosting—it’s the whole emotional rollercoaster where they disappear, reappear, and leave you wondering if it’s love, or just terrible WiFi.
So, ladies and gentlemen, if you’re unsure what to call your current “dating situation,” now you have a word for it.
Featured Image: IMdb