Ah, the ever-evolving world of dating. Just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, there’s a new buzzword making waves on TikTok or popping up in your group chat. From describing sneaky red flags to celebrating fresh dynamics, this year’s relationship lingo reflects the wild, messy, and (sometimes) beautiful state of modern love.

Here’s your cheat sheet to keep up with the cool kids—or at least understand what your friends are ranting about.

1. Breadcrumbing

Think Hansel and Gretel, but less fairy tale and more nightmare. Breadcrumbing is when someone leads you on with just enough attention to keep you hooked—but with zero intention of taking things further. A “good morning” text every week? That’s crumbs, baby.

2. Stealthing

This one’s serious and absolutely not okay. Stealthing refers to the act of secretly removing a condom during sex without consent. It’s a violation of trust and boundaries—and a reminder to prioritize open, honest communication in every intimate relationship.

3. Paperclipping

Ever had an ex pop up out of nowhere just to see if you’ll reply? That’s paperclipping—a nod to the Microsoft Clippy that shows up uninvited and is no longer useful. It’s attention-seeking behavior with no real intention behind it.

4. Beige Flags

Not quite red, not quite green—beige flags are quirks or habits that aren’t dealbreakers but are just…meh. Think “eats plain rice for every meal” or “obsessed with obscure train facts.” Not bad, just beige.

5. Hardballing

No games here! Hardballing is when someone’s upfront about what they want in a relationship from the start. It’s direct, clear, and leaves no room for ambiguity. Love it or hate it, this no-nonsense approach is gaining traction.

6. Zombie-ing

Ghosted and then un-ghosted? Welcome to zombie-ing. This is when someone who disappeared from your life suddenly resurrects, sliding back into your DMs as if nothing happened. Proceed with caution—it’s giving “undead drama.”Sourcf

Source: Freepik

7. Inflating

Unlike gaslighting, where someone makes you doubt your reality, inflating is when someone exaggerates their feelings or commitment to win you over. It’s all about big promises with little follow-through.

8. Orbiting

They don’t talk to you, but they’re watching your Instagram Stories and liking your posts. Orbiting is a subtle way of staying in your life without actually being in it. Creepy or strategic? You decide.

9. Love-Bombing

If someone comes on way too strong, showering you with excessive affection, gifts, and promises right off the bat, they might be love-bombing you. It feels amazing at first—until it becomes manipulative or controlling.

10. Frosting

This one’s for the soft launchers. Frosting is when someone keeps things light, casual, and non-committal. Think weekend hangouts with no talk of the future. It’s not cold, but it’s definitely not heating up either.

Modern dating is a jungle, but knowing the language can help you navigate it with a little more clarity (and a lot more sass). Whether you’re dodging zombies or dodging beige flags, remember this: the best kind of relationship is one where the words—and intentions—match the actions.