Breadcrumbing

Verb / UK Slang

Breadcrumbing refers to leading someone on by giving them just enough attention or interest to keep them engaged, but never actually following through with anything substantial.

Example: “He’s been breadcrumbing me for weeks—texting but never making plans”
Means: “He’s been leading me on for weeks—showing interest but never committing.”

Example: “She’s just breadcrumbing him, he shouldn’t get his hopes up”
Means: “She’s leading him on without any intention of committing.”