Does dated mean dated or past relationship?

[Jaye1331]

I guess I should word it as does "dated" only mean someone you used to date (informal relationship, not boyfriend/girlfriend) or does it also refer to a former boyfriend/girlfriend?

Updates

+1 y

It's a simple question. I'm writing something and looking for the best way to word it.

[JaxiCats]

Both it depends on the context like

“I dated him 2 years ago but we weren’t compatible.” -you dated him in the past

“We dated at one point but now that we’re married not so much.” -you’re in the same relationship with someone but at a different stage now like marriage

[TheNewGeneration]

I think that it can also refer to a former boyfriend or girlfriend. I'm not sure, though.