You are right ghosting can be cowardly. I don't give much explanation when I'm done with someone, so when people do it to me, I don't take offence or reach out. I do reach out sometimes if I feel there was a romantic connection there but the ghosting wasn't clear.

Sometimes people get busy and forget they started a new friendship. I think the point is to know how long they disappeared before you can say they ghosted you.

For me, if they disappear after two weeks, I take it they were busy. But after a month, now that is a clear indication you have been ditched. At that point, an explanation isn't necessary.