Gaslighting is Merriam-Webster's word of the year. Here's what it means in the dating world

The US dictionary publisher Merriam-Webster recently announced their word of the year; 'gaslighting' which means manipulating or grossly misleading someone. 

The phrase originated from a 1938 mystery thriller called Gaslight. Searches for 'gaslighting' remained high throughout the year. Let's find out what it exactly means in the dating world. 

Gaslighting is undermining a partner’s emotions and feelings to deny their own reality. People who experience it may feel confused, anxious or as if they cannot trust themselves.

Signs of gaslighting in a relationship

• They keep lying when you catch them
• They play on your insecurities
• Their actions don’t match their words
• They question your sanity
• They accuse you of the same behaviors
• You feel increasingly unsure of yourself

Also watch: What is Merriam-Webster's word of the year?