The Top 12 Dating Terms You Need to Know

Because Post-Divorce Dating Shouldn't Feel Like a Foreign Language - However, it Does!

Dating today isn’t just different — it practically has its dictionary. If you’ve been out of the game for a while, swiping, ghosting, and "situationships" might sound like a foreign language. Don’t worry — Divorcee Dish has you covered.

Here’s your cheat sheet to the Top 12 Dating Terms you need to know before diving back into the dating pool:

1. Ghosting

Someone you’re talking to or dating suddenly stops responding without any explanation. One minute, you’re texting about your favorite pizza toppings; the next, they vanish into thin air. Rude? Yes. Common? WAAAY too familiar, as adults, it's been an eye opener to know that people hold their phones in their hand for 12+ hours a day and can't give closure, shame on them.

2. Breadcrumbing

Sending enough attention (texts, likes, DMs) to keep you interested — but never committing to anything real. It's like leaving a trail of crumbs without ever planning to share the loaf.

3. Benching

Keeping someone on the sidelines while exploring other options. They’re not entirely out, but they’re not first-string either. Think: "You're great! Let’s hang out soon!" — but they never set a date.

4. Love Bombing

When someone comes on strong at the beginning — nonstop compliments, big promises, over-the-top gestures — only to back off once they have your attention. 🚩 (Big red flag.)

5. Cushioning

Flirting with people just in case your current relationship doesn't work out is emotional bubble wrap—not cute, not healthy.

6. Catfishing

When someone creates a fake identity online to trick you, filters are one thing. Fake names, fake photos, fake lives? With AI in the mix, you need to be careful and ALWAYS ask for a last name before things go too far.

7. Situationship

More than friends, less than a relationship. You’re doing a couple of things without the label or commitment. Comfortable? Maybe. Confusing? Definitely.

8. Soft Launch

Post a subtle hint of your new relationship on social media — maybe a hand, a blurry back view, or a plate from a dinner date —without revealing their identity. It's like relationship sneak peeking.

9. Hard Launch

The full-on Instagram debut of your new relationship. Official. Tagging each other. Couple selfies. #Blessed

10. Orbiting

After ghosting you, someone still watches all your Instagram stories, likes your posts, and casually lurks online. They're not talking to you, but they’re keeping tabs. Weird? Yes.

11. Zombie-ing

When someone who ghosted you suddenly pops back up like nothing happened. "Hey stranger, how have you been?" (Brain: RUN.)

12. Red Flag/Green Flag

⚠️ Red flags are warning signs of bad behavior (like controlling tendencies, constant canceling, or disrespect).✅ Green flags are signs of healthy, respectful behavior (good communication, accountability, emotional maturity).

These are only a few, some familiar and some not; I hope this helps you navigate the latest and greatest.

Cheers,

Erin