Hookup: meaning, definitions and examples

Informal term often used among young adults referring to a brief or spontaneous sexual encounter without any expectation of a serious relationship.

• They had a hookup last night at the party.
• I'm not looking for anything serious, just a casual hookup.

Describes a short-term, passionate relationship or affair. It may include both emotional and sexual elements but is always temporary.

• They had a summer fling while on vacation.
• It was just a fling, nothing serious.

A more neutral-sounding term for a brief, spontaneous meeting, usually with a sexual implication. Often used in online dating contexts.

• They met through an ad for a casual encounter.
• The app is popular for people seeking casual encounters.

Specifically refers to a single, spontaneous sexual encounter between two people who do not intend to pursue a relationship afterward. It can sometimes have a negative connotation.

• She regretted the one-night stand the next morning.
• They met at a club and ended up having a one-night stand.

Mostly used in informal settings to describe a casual romantic meeting or a temporary connection, often related to relationships or electrical connections.

• They had a one-night hookup.
• We need a Wi-Fi hookup in this room.

Can describe relationships, networking, or how different parts of something are linked together. This term is very versatile and can be used in both personal and professional contexts.

• We need to improve our internet connection.
• She has a lot of connections in the industry.

Often used in both digital and physical contexts to describe something that joins two or more things together, such as a hyperlink or a physical chain.

• Click on the link to visit our website.
• There is a missing link in this chain.

Typically refers to an emotional bond, or it can mean an additional part added to something, like an email or a piece of equipment.

• She felt a strong attachment to her hometown.
• Please find the document in the email attachment.