Your A-Z Guide to Modern Love: From ‘Pookie’ to ‘Groundhogging,’ discover the trendiest Gen Z dating slang and stay in the know with the latest buzz from the dating scene.
1. POOKIE
Your new favourite term of endearment!
“Pookie” is TikTok’s latest affectionate nickname for besties, partners, and even celebs. Think cosy vibes with a hint of playful love.
2. BEIGE FLAG
Not quite a red flag, but enough to make you go, hmmm. A beige flag is that little quirk in your partner’s personality that’s not a deal breaker but definitely makes them uniquely them. Odd yet lovable.
3. HARD LAUNCH
From zero to official! The moment when you stop being subtle and scream it from the social rooftops- you’re taken! Cue the couple photos, the love-filled captions, and maybe even a little PDA.
4. SOFT LAUNCH
Keeping things low-key? A soft launch is the gentle teaser of a relationship-just a glimpse, like a well-angled photo featuring a mysterious hand or a shared meal. Intrigue at its finest.
5. RIZZ
Got charm? That’s your “rizz” in action. Rizz is what gets hearts racing without trying too hard-whether it’s a smirk, a witty comeback, or that undeniable magnetism that leaves everyone wanting more.
6. DINK
“Dual Income, No Kids”, and the freedom to indulge-it’s the ultimate power couple lifestyle.
7. CUFFING
When the chill of winter rolls in, so does the urge to snuggle up. Cuffing is the seasonal shift from single to serious, as couples seek cosiness and companionship for those cold months.
8. BENCHING
You’re interested but… not that interested.
Benching is all about keeping someone on the sidelines while exploring other options. Just enough attention to keep them around, but no commitment.
9. GROUNDHOGGING
Dating déjà vu? Groundhogging is the pursuit of the same type of person over and over again, always hoping this time will be different.
Spoiler: it usually isn’t.
10. GHOSTING
A situation in which someone suddenly ceases to respond to messages or interactions. It is as if they have just disappeared into thin air, leaving you wondering what has happened.