Gen Z Dating Terms You Probably Didn’t Know

Breadcrumbing: Sending occasional flirty texts or DMs to keep someone interested — but with no real intention of dating them seriously. (Image: Pexels)

Benching: Keeping someone on the sidelines (like a backup option) while exploring other romantic interests. (Image: Pexels)

Situationship: More than a hookup, less than a relationship. No labels, just vibes. (Image: Pexels)

Ghostlighting: When someone ghosts you and then later gaslights you about why they disappeared. (Image: Pexels)

Orbiting: When someone stops talking to you but keeps watching all your stories, liking your posts, etc. (Image: Pexels)

Cushioning: Flirting with others just in case your current relationship doesn’t work out. (Image: Pexels)

Zombieing: When someone who ghosted you suddenly comes back from the dead — like nothing happened. (Image: Pexels)

Love Bombing: Over-the-top displays of affection early on, often to manipulate or rush intimacy. (Image: Pexels)

Dry Dating: Going on dates without alcohol — focusing on real connection and clear-headed vibes. (Image: Pexels)

Freckling: A summer fling that fades once the season ends — like freckles that disappear in winter. (Image: Pexels)