Kittenfishing

Kittenfishing (verb / Dating Slang)

(Also heard as: Kittenfish, Kittenfished, Kitten fishing)

Definition:

Kittenfishing is exaggerating or slightly misrepresenting yourself on a dating profile, for example with old photos, a small lie about your height or job, or heavy filters. It is a mild version of catfishing, with no fake identity.

Where Kittenfishing Comes From:

It was coined around 2017 as a “smaller” cousin of catfishing, since a kitten is a baby cat. It became common in dating-app advice and articles.

How People Actually Use Kittenfishing:

Used about small lies: “his photos were three years old, that’s kittenfishing”. It marks the line between harmless polish and being misleading.

Is Kittenfishing Rude?

Not hugely, but it can still feel dishonest when you meet someone in person.

Examples in the Wild:

• “Her profile pics were ancient. Total kittenfishing.”Meaning: She used outdated photos.
• “He said he was 6ft. Kittenfished.”Meaning: He exaggerated his height.
• “It’s only kittenfishing, not catfishing.”Meaning: It is a small exaggeration, not a fake identity.

Similar Slang:

Catfish, Red Flag, Thirst Trap, Cap

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