Modern dating has evolved into a complex landscape, complete with its own ever-expanding vocabulary designed to capture the nuances of romantic relationships in the digital age. From the first match on a dating app to navigating the ups and downs of commitment, new terms are coined almost daily to describe behaviours, trends, and situations unique to contemporary relationships. This linguistic shift reflects how technology, cultural changes, and evolving social norms have transformed the way we meet, communicate, and connect with potential partners.
In 2024, the online dating landscape introduced several terms that encapsulated emerging behaviours and trends. Here are some of the most popular and talked-about dating trends:
1. Breadcrumbing
Breadcrumbing is a popular dating trend that refers to when someone sends you occasional flirtatious messages but doesn’t intend to pursue a real relationship. These messages, or “breadcrumbs,” are often just enough to keep you interested and invested, but not enough to lead to any meaningful connection or commitment.
Examples of breadcrumbing include sporadic texting or messaging on social media, sending flirtatious or suggestive messages, but never following through, and making plans, but constantly cancelling or postponing. Breadcrumbing can be frustrating and confusing, leaving the person on the receiving end wondering if they’re really interested or just playing games.
2. Zombieing
 This term describes a situation where someone who previously ghosted you unexpectedly reappears in your life, attempting to rekindle the connection without acknowledging their prior disappearance. This person might send a text, like a social media post, or even try to rekindle the relationship without acknowledging their prior disappearance.
The term likens this behaviour to a “zombie” rising from the dead, metaphorically representing how the person resurfaces after seeming to vanish completely. Zombieing can be frustrating and confusing for the person on the receiving end, as it often lacks a clear explanation or apology, leaving them to question the intentions behind the unexpected return.
3. Love Bombing
Love Bombing is a dating trend where someone showers their partner with overwhelming affection, compliments, gifts, and attention early in the relationship. While this can seem romantic and exciting at first, love bombing is often a manipulative tactic used to establish control or create dependency.
The “bomber” may use this excessive display of love to quickly gain the other person’s trust and affection, only to later shift to more controlling or emotionally abusive behaviours once the relationship is firmly established. This stark change can leave the recipient feeling confused and emotionally vulnerable.
In 2024, the term gained prominence as people became increasingly aware of the importance of healthy boundaries and identifying red flags in relationships. Experts recommend watching for balance and consistency in a partner’s actions to avoid falling into the trap of love bombing.
4. Benching
Benching is a dating trend where someone keeps another person as a “backup” option while actively pursuing other romantic interests. The “bencher” gives just enough attention to keep the other person interested, such as sporadic messages, compliments, or plans that rarely materialize, but avoid committing to a relationship or taking things to the next level.
The term draws from sports, where players sit on the bench, waiting to be called into the game. In the dating world, it reflects the sense of being sidelined while the bencher explores other opportunities. For the person being benched, this behaviour can lead to frustration, confusion, and emotional exhaustion.
5. Affordating
Affordating is a dating trend that emerged as a response to economic pressures and the rising cost of traditional dates. It focuses on planning and enjoying affordable or cost-conscious outings while still fostering meaningful connections.
Instead of extravagant dinners or pricey events, affording encourages creative, budget-friendly activities such as picnics in the park with homemade food, exploring local attractions that are free or inexpensive, like museums with discounted tickets, and cooking together at home for a cosy and personal experience.
6. Chameleoning
Chameleoning is a dating trend where someone changes or adapts their personality, interests, and behaviour to mirror their partner’s preferences in an attempt to be more likeable or compatible. While this might initially seem like an effort to connect or impress, it often leads to the person losing their sense of self and authentic identity within the relationship.Â
In 2024, chameleoning became a focal point in discussions about healthy dating behaviours, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself and finding partners who appreciate authenticity.
7. Sober Dating
Sober Dating is a growing dating trend where individuals choose to connect and get to know each other without the influence of alcohol or other substances. With the rise of wellness culture, more people are prioritising their physical and mental health, including rethinking alcohol consumption. This approach emphasises clarity, authenticity, and intentionality in romantic interactions.
The term gained traction in 2024 as part of a broader cultural shift toward mindful living and creating more intentional romantic connections.
