ghosting

noun

ghost·​ing ˈgō-stiŋ 

1

: a faint double image on a television screen or other display

also : the formation of such images

Such displays tend to suffer from ghosting, which shows up as extraneous lines on screen.

—Consumer Reports

2

informal : the act or practice of abruptly cutting off all contact with someone (such as a former romantic partner) usually without explanation by no longer accepting or responding to phone calls, instant messages, etc.

Romeo one minute, where'd he go the next? Ghosting is when you go poof and literally disappear out of someone's life without a word or explanation.

—Samantha Burns

"It's the fear of missing out on the thing, or person, that is coming next. … It may be a little mean, but we're dating; it's not like we're in a relationship," said one anonymous online dater in defense of ghosting.

—Chelsea Frisbie

see also ghost entry 2 sense 3

Examples of ghosting in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In an age dominated by dating apps, ghosting and judgments based on profile pictures, finding a real connection can feel like trying to win a game where the rules are always changing. —Ramal Nasim, Kansas City Star, 18 July 2025

Despite the lack of disclosure and an apparent ghosting, Shafiq’s AI-interview went as smoothly as intended. —Dalila Muata, NBC news, 11 July 2025

One of the easiest ways to reduce ghosting is to schedule your next interaction before the current one ends. —Lorraine K. Lee, CNBC, 10 July 2025

Each model is equipped with a sophisticated multilayer coating that effectively minimizes lens flare and ghosting, enhancing image clarity and contrast. —Matt Morris, Space.com, 6 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for ghosting

• boasting
• coasting
• hosting
• posting
• roasting
• toasting
• composting