As we wrap up 2024, it’s fascinating to take a closer look at what people have been searching for when it comes to love, relationships and navigating connections in the modern world.
Google Trends, our ever-reliable window into what’s on people’s minds, has revealed some intriguing relationship terms that dominated searches this year.
Words like “open relationship,” “gaslighting” and “breadcrumbing” have been at the forefront of conversations. But what do these terms really mean and why are people so curious about them?
Let’s unpack the relationship buzzwords of the year, explore why they resonate and how they’ve shaped the way we navigate love in 2024.
Open relationships: the rise of non-traditional love
One of the biggest relationship trends of 2024 is the increasing curiosity around “open relationships”.
This year, Google reported a significant spike in searches for this term, as more people started exploring alternatives to monogamy.
An open relationship is a consensual agreement between partners to allow romantic or sexual connections with others. According to relationship therapists, this trend reflects a cultural shift toward “prioritising individual needs and desires while still maintaining a committed connection”.
In an era where self-expression is celebrated, more people are questioning traditional relationship norms and exploring what works best for them.
What’s driving this interest? For one, celebrity culture has played a role. Public figures like Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, who have been open about their unconventional marriage dynamics, have made the concept less taboo.
Additionally, dating apps like Feeld and OkCupid have normalised non-monogamy by including it in their profile options.
But before jumping into an open relationship, experts recommend having honest conversations with your partner. “Transparency and boundaries are key, successful open relationships require a solid foundation of trust.”
Gaslighting: the most searched relationship red flag
If there’s one word that seems to capture the emotional struggles of relationships in 2024, it’s “gaslighting”.
Searches for this term have remained consistently high, with spikes during major pop culture moments, like when reality TV star Tom Sandoval was accused of gaslighting his partner on Vanderpump Rules.
Gaslighting is a form of emotional manipulation where one person makes another doubt their perceptions, memories or feelings. It’s not new, but heightened awareness of mental health and emotional abuse has made it a hot topic.
So, why are so many people Googling it? For starters, the term has evolved beyond romantic relationships. It’s been used to describe workplace dynamics, friendships and even political discourse.
But within relationships, gaslighting is often a sign of deeper issues. People are becoming more aware of unhealthy behaviours and are using tools like therapy and education to call them out.
If you think you might be experiencing gaslighting, experts recommend paying attention to how you feel in your relationship. Are you constantly doubting yourself? Do you feel like your partner minimises your emotions?
Breadcrumbing
Breadcrumbing has been around for a while but, in 2024, it took on a new flavour.
Breadcrumbing, for those unfamiliar, is the act of sending small, inconsistent signals of interest to keep someone on the hook — without committing to a real relationship.
This year, however, Google searches for “breadcrumbing” revealed an unexpected twist.
The term gained traction after it was popularised on TikTok, where creators described situations in which someone would shower them with attention and then pull away.
If you’ve been breadcrumbed, you’re not alone. The best way to deal with this behaviour is to set firm boundaries. Don’t settle for half-hearted efforts. If someone’s not showing up consistently, it’s okay to walk away.
Why these terms matter in 2024
The popularity of these relationship terms highlights a broader cultural shift. People are no longer content to settle for outdated norms or unhealthy behaviours.
Instead, they’re seeking out new ways to define love, set boundaries, and prioritize their well-being.
The fact that these terms are trending shows that people are hungry for understanding. They want to name their experiences and make sense of their emotions.
This increased awareness is a positive step, encouraging healthier, more intentional relationships.
If 2024’s relationship buzzwords are any indication, the new year will likely bring even more conversations about love, connection, and emotional health.
As we continue to redefine what relationships look like, one thing is clear: honesty, communication and self-awareness will remain at the heart of it all.