definitions and explanations for all things related to dating, relationships, and the key terms that shape your journey to love
Welcome to the Sophy Love Glossary! Whether you’re navigating the world of dating or building lasting relationships, this is your go-to resource for understanding key terms and concepts. Explore a wide range of definitions that will help clarify everything from relationship dynamics to modern dating trends, all designed to support you on your journey to finding meaningful connections.
The patterns of behavior and emotional responses people develop in relationships based on their early experiences with caregivers, influencing how they connect with others
A practice focused on cultivating genuine connections through honest communication, self-awareness, and vulnerability.
Keeping someone on the sidelines as a backup option while you pursue other romantic interests.
Sending sporadic messages or signals to keep someone interested without committing to a relationship.
Creating a fake online persona to deceive someone into a romantic relationship.
An intentional approach to dating where individuals prioritize self-awareness, emotional maturity, and clear communication to cultivate healthy and meaningful connections.
The period during colder months when people are more likely to seek out committed relationships for warmth and companionship.
Keeping backup options or potential romantic interests in case your current relationship doesn’t work out.
A platform designed to facilitate connections between people interested in dating.
Limits and expectations set within a relationship to ensure mutual respect, safety, and well-being.
Dating is the process of getting to know someone romantically with the possibility of forming a relationship. Explore the history, current trends, types, and etiquette of romance.
Stands for “Define The Relationship,” a conversation to establish the nature and expectations of a relationship.
Adopting the interests and personality traits of someone you’re attracted to in an attempt to impress them.
When two people are in a committed relationship and agree not to date or pursue other romantic interests.
Stands for “Facebook Official,” indicating a public declaration of a relationship on social media.
A situation where one person desires a romantic relationship but the other only sees them as a friend.
Discover what gaslighting is, recognize its signs, and learn how to overcome its effects. Understand this manipulative behavior in relationships and empower yourself to heal.
Ghosting is the process ghosting of getting to know someone romantically with the possibility of forming a relationship. Explore the history, current trends, types, and etiquette of romance.
Abruptly ending all communication with someone without explanation.
A positive sign or behavior that suggests a healthy and fulfilling relationship.
When an ex or former romantic interest reappears online by liking or interacting with your posts without direct contact.
Exaggerating or misrepresenting yourself online in a less extreme way than catfishing.
An overwhelming display of affection and attention at the beginning of a relationship, often used as a manipulation tactic.
The different ways people express and receive love, including words of affirmation, quality time, physical touch, acts of service, and receiving gifts.
The process of pairing two people together based on perceived compatibility.
Giving backhanded compliments or making subtle insults to undermine someone’s confidence and make them more receptive to your advances.
Using websites or apps to meet and connect with potential romantic partners.
A relationship where both partners agree to have other romantic or sexual partners.
When someone maintains a presence in your online sphere by liking or interacting with your posts but doesn’t engage in direct communication.
Hiding your relationship from friends, family, or social circles.
A warning sign or behavior that indicates potential problems or incompatibility in a relationship.
Shared aspirations and desires for the future of a relationship.
When someone hides the fact that they’re dating multiple people at the same time.
An undefined romantic relationship where the boundaries and expectations are unclear.
Gradually decreasing communication and emotional investment in a relationship to avoid a direct breakup.
The early phase of dating where two people are getting to know each other and exploring the potential for a relationship.
A suggestive photo or message posted online to attract attention and elicit compliments.
When someone who ghosted you suddenly reappears and tries to re-initiate contact.