Quick answer: ick (Informal aversion) — A feeling or expression of disgust or aversion. “The ick” can describe a reaction that makes someone suddenly feel put off. Meanwhile, orbiting (informal) — orbiting: stopping direct contact while still watching or interacting online.
1. ick ↗
Category: People & relationships
Register: Informal aversion
Regions: Online
A feeling or expression of disgust or aversion. “The ick” can describe a reaction that makes someone suddenly feel put off.
When it fits: Use it informally to describe your own reaction. In a serious conversation, explain the behavior or feeling instead of relying on a broad dismissive label.
When to avoid: Avoid presenting your aversion as proof that someone is bad or treating every minor annoyance as a warning about another person’s safety or character.
“That smug reply gave me the ick.”
In plain English: That smug reply made me feel put off.
2. orbiting ↗
Category: People & relationships
Register: informal
Regions: Online
orbiting: stopping direct contact while still watching or interacting online.
When it fits: Choose this wording when the meaning above fits what you intend to say. Give the reader enough surrounding context to follow the example; if clarity matters more than the shorthand, use the plain-English wording instead.
When to avoid: Avoid assuming that a label reveals somebody’s motives or private behavior. If you are unsure how your words will be understood, explain the situation directly and ask a clarifying question rather than relying on the expression alone.
“When I stopped texting him, his orbiting kept showing up in my notifications, liking every photo I posted.”
In plain English: When I stopped texting him, his stopping direct contact while still watching or interacting online kept showing up in my notifications, liking every photo I posted.
Test both expressions in context
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