What is Pebbling? Dating trend reminiscent of penguin behaviour explained
It can feel as though there's a new term related to dating, sex and relationships every week. And now, there's another new one thrown into the mix. Pebbling is the latest term to add to your internet vocabulary.
But what does it mean? Here's what you need to know.
What is pebbling?
Pebbling is the wholesome new term for the act of sending partners, or other loved ones little gifts or something thoughtful to brighten up their day.
“Pebbling started with the advent of meme sending as a form of creating a connection with people,” Gigi Engle, a relationship expert and psychotherapist, told The Metro.
"I think it’s the cutest thing ever because memes are a love language these days. Pebbling started with the advent of meme sending as a form of creating a connection with people," she said.
"You simply see something that reminds you of someone you love, and you send it to them."
Pebbling can take the form of memes, or even sending someone a coffee.
"It can definitely strengthen relationships because it’s similar to sending a message saying ‘I saw this and thought of you’", Engle adds.
"Pebbling can be a really good way of building banter and a connection with a partner. It doesn’t have to be physical stuff – it’s meme culture."
However, if pebbling isn't consistent, it can lead someone to think that something has gone wrong in the relationship.
"Pebbling does have the potential to set an expectation of communication you’re going to have throughout your relationship, so that’s something to keep in mind.
"If you stop pebbling the other person may wonder what they did wrong."
However, pebbling is a great, easy way to let someone know you've been thinking about them and that you care.
The term is thought to originally have derived from the behaviour of Adélie penguins who meticulously collect and put together pebbles to build their nests.
It is also used in a neurodivergent context, a neurodivergent behaviour of people collecting and giving items to loved ones.
Have you ever given someone a cool rock you found or a little trinket because it made you think of them?
That’s because unconventional gift giving, or Penguin Pebbling, is a common love language for people with ADHD. 💙🐧— Inflow | The ADHD App (@get_inflow) February 27, 2024
