Fling

Etymology

From the verb "fling" (to throw with force or abandon), of Scandinavian origin. The romantic sense grew from the phrase "to have one’s fling" — to indulge freely in pleasure before settling down — carrying the idea of throwing oneself into something wholeheartedly but briefly.

noun · /fling/
A brief, casual romantic or sexual relationship entered into without long-term intent.
What it names
A relationship defined by its short, unserious horizon — mutually understood to be temporary from the start.
Example
It was a summer fling, and both of them knew September would end it without hard feelings.
Related idea
A fling is understood by both people to be short-term and light; a situationship is defined instead by ambiguity — a relationship with unclear labels and expectations, which may drag on precisely because no one has named it.
verb · /fling/
To throw or hurl something forcefully or carelessly.
What it names
a violent or careless throw
Example
She flung the letter into the fire without reading it.
Related idea
The gesture of rage-quitting often ends in exactly this — a controller flung across the room.