We’re only a month and a half into 2025, and already the dating world (and the internet) has given us the strange, hilarious, and honestly slightly confusing dating terms that are guaranteed to keep us guessing. From the heart-racing highs of “Textual Chocolate” to the emotional whiplash of “Kangarooing,” it’s proof that modern dating is a rollercoaster, and sometimes it’s a bit like holding on for dear life. So grab your favorite drink (maybe a glass of wine for this one) and  get ready for some laughs, a few cringes, and a whole lotta “been there, done that” moments…

"Textual Chocolate"

/TEK-shoo-uhl CHAW-kuh-lit/ • noun

“Sweet texts that make you melt in the moment but leave you empty inside afterward.”

You know the type: "You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me” or I can’t stop thinking about you…”

Cue heart flutter. But then? Crickets. They don’t text back for days, weeks, or maybe ever. Textual Chocolate is the emotional junk food of modern dating. It feels so good in the moment—like someone just handed you a compliment candy bar—but ultimately, it leaves you hungry for real substance.

Pro Tip: If they’re all talk and no action, put down the chocolate and reach for someone who’ll actually follow through.

"Sardining"

/SAR-deen-ing/ • verb

“Stuffing you with forced compliments until you’re practically drowning in flattery.”

You know the type: "OMG, you’re so beautiful, so smart, and so talented. I’m the luckiest person alive just to be texting you."

First of all, relax, Shakespeare. Sardining is when someone crams their messages with excessive, generic compliments in a desperate attempt to woo you. While it might seem sweet at first, it quickly starts to feel like they’re copy-pasting their flirty text game from a "Top 10 Ways to Impress Your Crush" article.

Pro Tip: If it feels like they’re casting a wide net of compliments, you’re probably not the only fish in the sea.

“Sneating” 

 /SNEET-ing/ • verb

“Dating for free food—and nothing else.”

If your date seems more excited about the menu than your conversation, you might be getting sneated. They’re not there for you—they’re there for the steak, sushi, or that ridiculously overpriced cocktail.

Pro Tip: It’s totally fine to love food, but if the vibes feel more like "personal assistant" than "potential partner," it’s time to move on. And maybe insist they split the bill…

“Firedooring”

/FYE-er-dohr-ing/ • verb

“The one-sided relationship where you're doing all the heavy lifting.”

You text first. You make the plans. You remember their mom’s birthday. Meanwhile, they barely reply to your messages and can’t be bothered to ask how your day was. Firedooring is exhausting, and honestly, you deserve better than a relationship that feels like a one-way street.

Pro Tip: If they can’t meet you halfway, it’s time to slam that door shut.

“Kangarooing”

/KANG-guh-ROO-ing/ • verb

“When someone bounces between hot and cold, leaving you emotionally winded.”

One minute, they’re your soulmate. The next, they’re more distant than your Wi-Fi signal on a stormy day. Kangarooing keeps you guessing—are you in their emotional pouch, or are you hopping toward heartbreak?

Pro Tip: If their emotional state gives you whiplash, consider hopping right out of that situation.

“Pocketing”

/POK-uh-ting/ • verb

“When your partner keeps you a secret from their inner circle.”

Sure, they’re happy to spend time with you—but only in private. Pocketing is when someone keeps you neatly tucked away, never introducing you to their friends or family. It’s like being their secret snack, only brought out when no one’s looking.

Pro Tip: If they can’t show you off, they don’t deserve to have you.

“Cloaking”

/KLOH-king/ • verb

“Next-level ghosting with a witness protection program twist.”

Not only do they stop replying to your texts, but they also block you on every platform. It’s as if they’ve vanished off the face of the Earth. Cloaking is ghosting, but so damn extra—because why just disappear when you can leave a social media black hole behind?

Pro Tip: If someone cloaks you, the universe just did you a favor. Go find someone who doesn’t treat dating like a stealth mission.

"Frankensteining"

/FRANK-en-STY-ning/ • verb

“When someone tries to piece together their ideal version of you, instead of loving the real you.”

They love your adventurous side but hate your introverted moments. They adore your career drive but can’t stand when you work late. Frankensteining is when someone tries to build their perfect partner out of bits and pieces of who you are, instead of appreciating the whole package.

Pro Tip: You’re not a science experiment. If someone can’t handle all of you, they don’t deserve any of you.

So, what’s the takeaway from all these weird and wonderful dating terms? Modern love can be messy, but it doesn’t have to leave you feeling like you’re stuck in a bad rom-com. With the right mindset (and a little help from First Round’s On Me), you can navigate the dating scene with confidence and clarity. Here’s how to stay ahead of the game in 2025:

Spot the Signs Early:

If you’re seeing the hallmarks of Textual Chocolate or Firedooring, trust your gut and set boundaries. FROM’s 24-hour chat feature helps eliminate the time-wasting back-and-forth and puts you on the fast track to meaningful connections. No endless messaging, just genuine interactions that lead to real-life dates. We make it clear someone isn’t following through or making the effort..

Prioritize Intentionality:

Look for someone who matches their words with actions, whether it’s texting back or introducing you to their friends. FROM’s Date Request feature takes the guesswork out of planning, so you know exactly who’s serious and ready to meet. Plus, with one match per day, you’ll never be lost in a sea of endless swiping. Focus on quality, not quantity.

Value Authenticity:

Sardining and Frankensteining are red flags. Real love isn’t about over-the-top compliments or trying to mold someone into the “perfect” partner. FROM encourages genuine connections, giving you the tools to meet people who appreciate you for who you really are—without the games. Remember, authenticity is the foundation of any great relationship.

Until next time x

HJF for First Round’s On Me