Ghosting

Definition:

The abrupt cessation of all communication with someone - typically in a romantic context - without any explanation or warning, effectively making oneself "disappear" from their life like a ghost

Context:

While the social phenomenon itself isn't new, the term "ghosting" (past-tense "ghosted") emerged online in the mid-2000s. It's become particularly relevant among Millennials & Gen-Z due to the ease of disconnecting in the digital age, where dating apps / social media have made romantic connections both more accessible and more disposable. In general, ghosting to end a romantic relationship, rather than normal adult communication, is frowned upon as a disrespectful and cowardly way out as it can lead to genuine psychological distress for those on the receiving end (so don't even think about it this Valentine's Day!).

Although its core meaning remains tied to romantic rejection, the phrase has taken on a casual quality nowadays, often being used self-referentially or humorously to describe less serious social situations (like leaving a party without saying goodbye or not texting back promptly).

Example:

^{(all names & events in the
following scenario have been made
up)}

Andruw: “Have you heard from Arturoh recently?”

Zak: “No I haven’t actually”

Andruw: “We were working together on something but he suddenly stopped responding”

Zak: “Hmmm, his status says online… I think he ghosted you…”

Arturoh: *sitting silently one cube over*