Orbiting

Orbiting (verb / Dating Slang)

(Also heard as: Orbit, Orbiter, Being orbited)

Definition:

Orbiting is when someone stops messaging or dating you but keeps watching your social media, liking posts and viewing stories. They have left the conversation but are still circling around you online.

Where Orbiting Comes From:

The term was popularised around 2018 as an extension of ghosting, using the idea of a satellite circling a planet. It became common in dating advice articles and on social media.

How People Actually Use Orbiting:

Used about an ex or a ghoster: “he ghosted me but still views every story, he’s orbiting”. It describes confusing mixed signals.

Is Orbiting Rude?

The behaviour can feel hurtful or manipulative, but the word itself is just a description.

Examples in the Wild:

• “He ghosted me but keeps liking my photos. Orbiting.”Meaning: He is gone but still watching me online.
• “Stop orbiting my story and just text me.”Meaning: Stop watching and say something.
• “Being orbited is so confusing.”Meaning: It is unclear what they want.

Similar Slang:

Ghosting, Breadcrumbing, Situationship, Red Flag

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