More people are embracing the term “greysexual” to describe a rare or inconsistent experience of sexual attraction. Unlike asexuality, greysexuality involves occasional desire, often separated by years. “I’ve maybe felt true sexual attraction once in my life,” one Reddit user shared.

Those identifying as greysexual say they may have fleeting crushes or “asexual moods” when attraction disappears entirely. For some, these moments of interest can appear suddenly, then vanish for months. “I thought I was a late bloomer,” another explained, until realizing their feelings were different from most people’s.

The label offers comfort and clarity to many who felt pressured or misunderstood in relationships. While the term was first used in 2006, its online presence is growing rapidly on Reddit, TikTok, and YouTube. Experts, however, warn that broader social factors — like body image pressures, anxiety, and misinformation — are also shaping young people’s intimacy.

Greysexuality sits in the “grey area” between asexuality and regular attraction. For those who resonate with it, the identity brings relief, self-understanding, and a reminder that sexuality can be deeply individual.