Cushioning

Cushioning (verb / Dating Slang)

(Also heard as: Cushion, Cushioned, Relationship cushioning)

Definition:

Cushioning is when someone in a relationship keeps flirting or chatting with other people as a back-up, so that if the relationship ends they have a soft landing. The “cushions” are the people kept in reserve.

Where Cushioning Comes From:

It was popularised in dating media around 2022 as a new “ing” term alongside ghosting, orbiting and breadcrumbing. It sits close to benching, but happens while someone is already in a relationship.

How People Actually Use Cushioning:

Used about a partner who flirts on the side: “I think he’s cushioning”. It can be a serious accusation of disloyalty.

Is Cushioning Rude?

The behaviour is seen as disrespectful, though the word is just descriptive. Whether harmless flirting counts is debated.

Examples in the Wild:

• “She keeps messaging an old ex. That’s cushioning.”Meaning: She is keeping a back-up.
• “I found out I was a cushion.”Meaning: I was someone’s spare option.
• “Cushioning is a major red flag.”Meaning: It is a sign of disloyalty.

Similar Slang:

Benching, Red Flag, Situationship, Breadcrumbing

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