Hookup

A hookup is a casual sexual encounter between people who are not in a committed relationship. The term is loose by design and can cover anything from kissing to sex, and from a one-time meeting to an ongoing casual arrangement. Hookup culture, meaning the general acceptance of casual sex without the expectation of commitment, is well established in gay and queer communities and is often organized through apps like Grindr and Scruff. Researchers note that people seek out hookups for many reasons, including pleasure, exploration, connection, and validation. Casual sex is a valid and common part of many people's lives, and it exists alongside dating and long-term relationships rather than in opposition to them.