Ghosting is a term used to describe the abrupt and complete cessation of communication with someone without any warning or explanation. It typically occurs in romantic relationships but can also happen in friendships, family relationships, and other social contexts. When someone ghosts another person, they suddenly stop responding to messages, calls, or any attempts at contact, effectively "vanishing" as if they were a ghost

. Ghosting can be obvious, such as suddenly ignoring all communication, or gradual, known as "soft ghosting," where contact is progressively minimized over time. Signs of ghosting include avoiding plans, not making commitments, lack of personal sharing, disappearing from social media, and disinterest in conversations

. The term "ghosting" became popular with the rise of online dating and social media, which have made it easier to avoid confrontation by simply cutting off contact digitally

. The behavior is often motivated by a desire to avoid emotional discomfort or confrontation

. Being ghosted can cause significant emotional pain, sometimes comparable to physical pain, because social rejection activates similar neural pathways in the brain

. In summary, ghosting means ending all communication with someone suddenly and without explanation, leaving the other person without closure and often confused or hurt