Dating is any social activity undertaken by, typically, two

people with the aim of each assessing the other's suitability
 
as their partner in an intimate relationship or as a spouse.

The word refers to the act of meeting and engaging in some
 
mutually agreed upon social activity. Traditional dating

activities include entertainment or a meal.

In many cultural traditions, a date may be arranged by a

third party, who may be a family member, acquaintance,
 
or professional matchmaker. Recently internet dating has

become popular.

Although dating etiquette in Western culture has become
 
more relaxed during the twentieth century, there are
 
considerable differences between social and personal values.
 
For example, when an activity costs money (for example, a
 
meal), traditionally the man was expected to pay; but in

recent times the practice of "going Dutch" (splitting the

expenses) has become more common and more acceptable.