Ghosting

Noun (informal)

Pronunciation
goh-sting

IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet)
/ˈɡoʊstɪŋ/

Definition
Ghosting refers to the sudden and unexplained ending of communication in a relationship, dating situation, or personal connection.

The person who “ghosts” stops replying to messages, calls, or contact attempts without providing an explanation, effectively disappearing from communication.

In modern dating culture, ghosting most often occurs through digital communication — texting, social media, or dating apps — where ending contact requires little effort or confrontation.

Origin of the Term
The term comes from the word “ghost,” referring to someone who disappears suddenly or becomes invisible.

The word gained widespread popularity during the mid-2010s as online dating platforms, messaging apps, and social media transformed how people communicate in romantic and social relationships.

Cultural Context
Ghosting became widely recognized in the 2010s as digital communication increasingly shaped dating and relationships. Messaging platforms and dating apps made it easier to end communication without direct confrontation.

As more people experienced the behavior, the term “ghosting” emerged as a way to name a pattern that previously existed but was difficult to clearly describe.

Naming the behaviour allowed people to identify it, discuss it, and recognize it as part of a broader shift in modern relationship dynamics.

Related Terms
Situationship
Breadcrumbing
Benching
Love Bombing
Emotional Labour

Sources
Wiktionary
Urban Dictionary
Cultural commentary on modern dating culture

Related Terms in The Women’s Archive
Situationship
Breadcrumbing
Emotional Labour