Teen Slang · Dating & relationships

What does “Ghost” mean?

To cut off contact suddenly without explanation. 'He ghosted me.'

Where “Ghost” comes from

Dating vocabulary from the early 2010s.

Why teens actually say it

Names a recognized dating exit pattern.

What it means for you as a parent

Worth a conversation about respectful communication.

How it’s used

  • “We talked for weeks and then he just ghosted me.” Hurt and confused by sudden silence. Left without closure.
  • “I had to ghost him, he wouldn’t take a hint.” Cutting off contact to escape discomfort. A little guilty, a little done.

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