Internet
avoidant
What does avoidant mean?
Having an avoidant attachment style — craving independence and distancing when intimacy intensifies.
"He's so avoidant he ghosts the second feelings come up."
Origin
From attachment theory's 'avoidant attachment.' Shortened to a standalone label in TikTok dating discourse in the early 2020s.
Frequently asked questions
What does avoidant mean in dating?
It describes someone who pulls away from emotional closeness and values independence, often dodging intimacy or hard talks.
What's the difference between dismissive and fearful avoidant?
Dismissive avoidants suppress their need for closeness; fearful avoidants want it but fear getting hurt, so they push and pull.
What does avoidant mean on TikTok?
It's a dating shorthand for someone who emotionally withdraws when a relationship gets serious.
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