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Ghosting, Benching, DTR and other relationship terms you should know about

  • In the world of relationships, new terms arise and make us question what we know about dating and romance. 
  • Most of these new words point to the changing patterns in relationships.
  • recently, words like ghosting, DTR and cuffing season, among others are commonly used. 
new relationship terms

There was time when only a handful of words were used to describe a relationship. Back in the day, words like true love, unconditional love, beloved etc were used frequently. Centuries later, girlfriend and boyfriend became popular terms. However, the world of dating and relationships has undergone a paradigm shift.

Relationships are no longer serious from the get go, there are several stages before two people fully commit. Perhaps that's why newer words have been invented to define a relationship and a romantic partner. We've included a dictionary for modern dating that could help you get through this complex universe where love isn't so simple anymore. 

Ship

This word is used to denote acceptance of a relationship. "I ship them" is a common phrase among millennials these days.

Ghosting

This word is used to describe a person who stops texting and calling after a few dates. If this has happened to you, then you've been ghosted.

Cuffing Season

There is a time of the year when people look for love and a committed relationship. This is usually during the winter and hence its called the cuffing season.

DTR

People are forced to use this acronym after they've flirted a few times and gone on several dates. DTR simply means define the relationship, a talk that most couples have, 

Talking

Whenever a millennial says that he/she is just "talking" to someone, it doesn't mean that they're merely talking. There's also a bit of romance or flirtation included in the conversation. 

Benching

You've been benched if the person refuses to meet you in person but flirts with you over texts and on social media. 

Thirst Trap

Have you ever come across a picture on social media in which the main object in the photo is misleading? Well, that's called a thirst trap.A person might upload a picture of their hair but all they're actually trying to show off their sexy back.