Glossary of Online Dating Terms from Benching to Zombi-ing!

Now that we’ve covered some crucial dating advice, let’s delve into the true meaning behind the interactions. With the increasing prevalence of online dating, a plethora of terms has emerged to describe the various behaviours exhibited by potential matches. Beware, indulging in any of the negative behaviours might earn you some demerits!

• Benching: Placing someone on the sidelines as a backup in case your main relationship doesn’t work out.
• Breadcrumbing: Periodically sending messages to keep someone on the hook, despite no intention of meeting up.
• Catfishing: Using misleading pictures to present oneself inaccurately. Cue the call to Nev and Max!
• Cuffing Season: Seeking companionship during the colder months, only to part ways when spring arrives.
• Curve: Receiving a rejection.
• Cushioning: Having backup romantic prospects while in a relationship, cushioning the fall if things go south.
• DTR (Define the Relationship): Establishing the nature and seriousness of a romantic connection.
• Freckling: Enjoying a casual summer fling, contrasting with the seriousness of the cuffing season.
• Genderfluid: Refers to individuals whose gender identity fluctuates.
• Ghosting: Abruptly cutting off communication after a date, leaving the other person feeling as if they’ve vanished.
• Haunting/Zombie-ing: Reappearing after ghosting with excuses, only to disappear again.
• Love Bombing: Showering someone with affection and attention, only to abruptly cease all contact.
• Non-Binary: Identifying outside the traditional gender binary of male or female.
• Pansexual: Being attracted to individuals regardless of their gender identity.
• Polyamory: Engaging in multiple romantic relationships simultaneously with the consent of all parties involved.
• Roaching: Concealing other romantic involvements while claiming ignorance of exclusivity.
• Situationship: Opting for a relationship without the pressure of formal labels.
• Slow Fade: Gradually reducing communication until it fizzles out completely, akin to prolonged ghosting.
• Thirsty: Conveying desperation for sexual attention, generally frowned upon.
• Wokefishing: Pretending to hold progressive views, such as LGBTQ+ support, without genuine commitment.

Understanding these terms equips you to navigate the nuances of modern dating with clarity.