

Two people are romantically interested in each other, but are not dating (or even “hanging out”) yet. Don’t see the term you’re looking for? Try this comprehensive list of acronyms or this guide to teen slang. Just to be clear: We’re definitely not suggesting that you violate your child’s privacy, but if you hear or come across any of these terms, there might be more going on than meets the eye.

Here’s a rundown of some of the most popular terms that teens use to describe modern romance, from the tamest to the riskiest. Many of these terms are harmless, but some aren’t-so it’s important as a parent to stay on top of the latest lingo, particularly when it’s being used as code in texts and emails to hide things from prying adult eyes. It’s fall, which means it’s cuffing season … but what the heck is that? Translating teen slang is no easy feat, especially when it comes to the terms they throw around to describe sex and relationships.
