Internet
orbiting
What does orbiting mean?
Sometimes flipped to describe what you do on purpose to keep an option warm without committing to a conversation.
"I'm not texting her back but I'm orbiting so she doesn't fully forget me."
Origin
Coined around 2018 by writer Anna Iovine for the dating site MEL, describing how someone stays 'in your orbit' on social media after going quiet. Spread fast through dating think-pieces and TikTok.
Frequently asked questions
What does orbiting mean on TikTok?
On TikTok it means someone stopped talking to you but still watches your stories and likes your posts to stay in your peripheral vision. It's seen as a mind-game move.
Is orbiting the same as ghosting?
No. Ghosting is total disappearance, while orbiting is a ghost who still lurks your socials. It's arguably more confusing because they go quiet but won't fully leave.
Why do people orbit?
Usually to keep you as a backup option or to soothe their own guilt without committing to a real conversation. Sometimes it's just nosiness.
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