In the context of relationships, “orbiting” refers to a behavior pattern where one person maintains a degree of presence in another person’s life without engaging in a direct or meaningful way. This can happen after a romantic relationship has ended or during a period of emotional distance. The individual who is orbiting often interacts with the other person through indirect means, such as liking their social media posts, sending occasional texts, or being physically present in shared social circles, but they avoid deeper communication or commitment.
Orbiting can create confusion and emotional turmoil for the person being orbited, as they may feel a lingering connection or hope for reconciliation, despite the lack of direct interaction. It often signifies a reluctance to fully let go of the relationship while simultaneously not being willing to invest time and energy into it.
This behavior can stem from various motivations, such as fear of commitment, insecurity, or a desire to keep options open. Ultimately, orbiting can complicate the healing process and emotional clarity for both individuals involved.