“Dating” means youre going on dates. You are actively getting out there and meeting people and spending time with them. “Dating someone” means youre seeing somebody specific, with purpose and on a regular basis.

What does dating mean now?

“Dating” means different things to different people, particularly across generations. At loveisrespect.org, we define “dating” as two people in an intimate relationship. The relationship may be sexual, but it does not have to be. It may be serious or casual, straight or gay, monogamous or open, short-term or long-term.