# ghosted

/ɡˈəʊstɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ghosted
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

to suddenly stop replying to someone and disappear from contact, with no explanation. You use it mostly for dating and friendships when the messages just stop.

For teachers: to abruptly cut off all communication with someone, typically by ignoring calls and messages without explanation. Common in dating and online social contexts where contact ends without closure.

## Examples

- He has ghosted three friends this month.
- After three great dates, she waited for his text, but he ghosted her and never replied again.
- Once the project ended, his mentor ghosted him, leaving months of guidance to dissolve into silence without closure or explanation.

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and takes a direct object, usually the person being ignored.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.