Oxford’s word of the year: ‘brain rot’

LONDON – Oxford Dictionaries Announces “Brain Rot” as Word of the Year

In a year where many of us have experienced it firsthand, Oxford Dictionaries has officially declared “brain rot” as the word of the year.

According to Oxford University Press, the term “brain rot” gained significant traction in 2024, with a 230% increase in usage compared to the previous year.

Defined as “the supposed deterioration of a person’s mental or intellectual state, especially due to overconsumption of trivial or unchallenging material, particularly online content,” brain rot encapsulates a growing concern in today’s society.

The selection of word of the year aims to capture a defining theme of the past 12 months, and “brain rot” emerged as the standout choice after a combination of public vote and language analysis by Oxford lexicographers.

Surpassing finalists such as demure, slop, dynamic pricing, romantasy, and lore, “brain rot” resonated with voters as a reflection of the dangers of excessive screen time and mindless consumption.

Interestingly, the term “brain rot” can be traced back to Henry David Thoreau’s 1854 work “Walden,” showcasing its enduring relevance in societal discussions about technology and humanity.

Casper Grathwohl, President of Oxford Languages, noted that “brain rot” epitomizes the contemporary apprehensions surrounding virtual life and leisure activities, making it a fitting choice for word of the year.

The previous year’s word of the year, “rizz,” focused on charisma and allure, highlighting the ever-evolving nature of language and cultural trends.

In a parallel announcement, Collins Dictionary revealed “brat” as its word of the year for 2024, drawing inspiration from a popular album title that encapsulates a carefree summer lifestyle.