Dating in 2025 comes with its own dictionary. From playful terms to frustrating trends, singles are reshaping the language of love to reflect the realities of modern romance.
“The explosion of dating lingo reflects how Gen Z is redefining relationships on their own terms,” says Bumble’s resident sexologist, Chantelle Otten. “They’re normalising deeper conversations about connection, intimacy and boundaries, all while adding a bit of playfulness to dating.”
Ready to level up your love language? Here’s your glossary of the latest dating terms.
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Beige Flags
Not quite a dealbreaker, but definitely quirky.
“Bumble’s 2025 Dating Trends report shows that 57% of Australian singles find quirky interests more attractive, highlighting how ‘beige flags’ can spark curiosity,” says Chantelle. The key? Ask yourself whether the beige flag signals deeper incompatibilities or is just a harmless quirk.
Benching
They’re keeping you on standby. Not cool.
“If you’re being benched, there are usually some clear signs: inconsistent communication, last-minute plans or feeling like all the effort is one-sided,” says Chantelle. Her advice? Set boundaries and decide if the arrangement genuinely works for you. If it doesn’t, move on to connections that match your energy.
Breadcrumbing
Giving just enough to keep you hooked—but not enough to commit.
“Breadcrumbing can mess with your sense of self, leaving you caught in a loop of doubt and frustration,” Chantelle warns. If you’re being breadcrumbed, step back, reassess and call out the behaviour. “Explain the inconsistencies you’ve noticed and set clear boundaries to protect your emotional well-being.”
Caspering
Ghosting, but with a ‘kind’ twist (spoiler: it’s not really kind).
“Caspering is not really any less harmful,” says Chantelle. It leaves people confused about why interest fizzled out. Instead, she recommends clear communication if you no longer feel a connection. “A simple text like, ‘I’ve really enjoyed getting to know you, but I’m not feeling a romantic connection,’ is much kinder than vanishing.”
Groundhogging
Dating the same type and expecting different results.
Falling into patterns feels familiar, but it can also keep you stuck. Chantelle advises staying openminded. “Spend extra time swiping on Bumble and avoid making snap judgments based on limited information. Staying open-minded can help you discover new dynamics that might feel more exciting and compatible.”
Orbiting
When someone keeps watching your social media after things fizzle out.
Orbiting might feel invasive or confusing, but it’s often a sign of curiosity or unresolved feelings. “Social media can act as a substitute for physical presence, making it easy to check in on an ex without fully re-engaging,” explains Chantelle. Take it as closure and focus on building connections with people who are fully present in your life.
Pookie
The new ‘babe’ (but make it quirky).
“Pookie is the 2025 version of honey or sweetie,” says Chantelle. “Pet names can enhance intimacy, as they are terms of endearment that signify connection and project tenderness.”
Fun Fact: Bumble’s 2025 Dating Trends found that almost half of Gen Z singles (49%) agree that bonding over shared quirks—like inside jokes or unique nicknames—is a form of intimacy.
Rizz
Romantic charisma, but make it flirty.
“Bumble research found that 43% of Australian singles see flirting as the antidote to low-effort dating because it shows effort and communicates intention,” says Chantelle.
Worried about lacking in the rizz department? Don’t stress—it’s a skill you can learn. “Humour is the most popular flirting style, so a little laugh can go a long way!”
Slow Rolling
When they’re taking their sweet time to commit. Slow rolling can feel frustrating, but it’s not always a bad thing. “It gives you a chance to explore your connection at a steady pace,” Chantelle explains.
If the delay doesn’t align with your needs, she suggests initiating an open, curious conversation. “For example, you might say, ‘I really enjoy spending time with you, what are you hoping for as we move forward?'”
Textuationship
All text, no meet.
According to Chantelle, textuationships thrive because digital flirting feels safer for some people. But if you’re ready to move offline, be upfront. “Try to set up dates sooner rather than later, so you can avoid investing too much in an online-only connection.”
Zombie-ing
When a ghoster reappears out of nowhere.
Zombie-ing can be jarring, but it’s often a sign of emotional immaturity. “If a ghoster suddenly reappears as a ‘zombie,’ the best way to handle it is to stay grounded and lead with kindness. Set clear boundaries and focus on connections that respect your time and energy,” says Chantelle.
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This article originally appeared in Issue 04 of Cosmopolitan Australia.
