It may be serious or casual, straight or gay, committed or open, short-term or long-term.
So, are we dating?
Whether you call it “dating” or something else, both people should agree on a definition and the same ground rules for the relationship. Keep these questions in mind:
To me you are dating someone if you have been on dates with them in the past and plan to continue that in the relatively near future.
As far as exclusivity, commitment and other baggage that may be associated with titles; they are a'la carte, if you want them they should be discussed with the person you are dating.
One interesting side effect of my definition is that you could be in a serious longterm relationship with someone and not be dating them. I find this interesting because dating is a lot of fun and can be made even more exciting with someone you really trust and care about.
The protocols and practices of dating, and the terms used to describe it, vary considerably from country to country and over time. The most common idea is two people trying out a relationship and exploring whether they are compatible by going out together in public as a couple who may or may not yet be having sexual relations. This period of courtship is sometimes seen as a precursor to engagement or marriage.