Ghostercoaster, Kenning and Game of Tones: The hottest new dating terms revealed

If you’re in the dating game, or have been in recent years, you’re probably familiar with modern dating terms – ghosting, breadcrumbing, love bombing and cuffing are just a handful of new-age relationship idioms that have made their way into our vocabulary.

But in the wake of discussions surrounding the rise – or normalisation – of non-monogamy, it’s about time for some less conventional dating terms, inclusive of non-traditional relationships and spicier romantic or sexual desires.

In light of this, extramarital and discreet dating site Ashley Madison has released its fifth annual Discreet Dictionary, complete with a dozen fun and fresh phrases for those dating, in relationships and everything in between (including some unorthodox terms to look out for if you suspect your partner of stepping out).

‘Ghostercoaster’, ‘Kenning’ and ‘auto-erect’ (using AI for sexting) are among those to add to your lexicon. Ashley Madison’s chief strategic officer, Paul Keable explained that the terms were born due to the reality of people in non-traditional relationships dealing with a “great deal of stigma and exclusion”.

“Our latest Discreet Dictionary aims to promote greater inclusivity through language, in a light-hearted way,” Keable said. “Dating should be fun for everyone, regardless of whether your situation fits the norm.”

That being said, let’s take a look at the new glossary.

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Non-traditional dating terms to know in 2024

Ghostercoaster

A variety of ghosting, the ‘ghostercoaster’ is a romantic partner who disappears and reappears intermittently.

Kenning

Inspired by the Barbie-mania of 2023, Kenning describes when men learn that monogamy is actually not the default for the modern woman (shock, horror).

Auto-erect

Yep, AI has made its way into dating. If you get a hand from Chat GPT when crafting sexts, you’re using what’s now known as ‘auto-erect’.

Game of Tones

Does a certain song remind you of a certain someone? Game of Tones is the act of assigning unique ringtones to your latest flings.

Covalent Bond

A controversial one, but if you’re experiencing stronger energy towards an affair partner when the affair is not disclosed, you could have a "covalent bond".

Fireside Fling

It can be hard going to bed alone in the colder months – a "fireside fling" is someone you hook up with to get through winter.

Call of Booty

We all know someone who plays juvenile games when it comes to dating – otherwise known as Call of Booty.

Freewheeling

Rocking non-monogamy without guilt or shame? You’re freewheeling.

Hush Haven

A "hush haven" is a favourite (and discreet) spot to carry out an affair.

Mapping

The art of carefully and deliberately crafting a date with an affair partner – specifically when said date lies outside of the monogamous bonds of your marriage.

RendezTwo

Polyamory has entered the chat. A RendezTwo refers to the act of a couple engaging in an ongoing arrangement with another couple.

Scandovellian

Another spicy one – a "scandovellian" refers to the reality where cheaters are villainized, and those being cheated on benefit from the affair.

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