With 2024 coming to a close, let’s look at the words of the year declared by five leading dictionaries – from demure, brain rot and many more!
This year, we found ourselves using many previously and rarely used words on a daily basis. Safe to say they’re a great addition to our vocabulary? Yes, we guess so. Yet, the word of the year is always all but the rage, one of the end of year reveals we look forward to, hence, since November, we’d been keeping an eye on this one. Lo and behold, five leading dictionaries have picked their word of the year. So, what’s the wait? Let’s take a look!
1. Oxford University Press (OUP) – Brain Rot
OUP went edgy this year, choosing brain rot—a term that perfectly sums up the endless TikTok scroll, hours spent rewatching sitcoms, or maybe doomscrolling. Originally used to describe mindless entertainment, it’s taken on a life of its own, humorously nodding to the modern experience of, well… wasting time. Hey, we can’t always keep busy, right? We need a little entertainment—or in modern terms, brain rot! It’s relatable and screams 2024. Plus, after the year we’ve had, it doesn’t sound bad.
2. Collins Dictionary – Brat
This classic term has gone from a childhood insult (like people saying, “Hey, you’re a brat,” and we’d whine) to a playful, almost endearing label for someone cheeky, demanding, or just a little spoiled. This year, from what it seems, we’ve embraced our inner “brat” moments—whether it’s ordering complicated coffee orders or expecting a love interest (yes, even the celebrity ones!) to telepathically knowing our favorite snacks and songs for the perfect drive. So… are we all a brat in one way or another?
3. Cambridge Dictionary – Manifest
It’s time to light that candle and envision your dreams! Cambridge Dictionary crowned manifest as its word of the year, a sort of ode to Gen Z’s obsession with manifestation. From TikTokers sharing their vision boards to everyone trying to “manifest” a better future, this word is all about believing in the power of positive vibes (and maybe a little hustle).
Just a few days ago, in the wee hours of the night, I manifested good grades (after the very traumatic mids), good skin, good hair, and my celebrity crush… oops.
4. Merriam-Webster – Authentic
Merriam-Webster’s word of the year is… drum roll, please… authentic! This word has been making the rounds with people craving genuine experiences in a world that is overly romanticized and full of filters. It’s a reminder to be real—whether it’s posting a candid photo, expressing honest thoughts, or simply living the moment. In a time where we’re all questioning what’s “real,” this word is a gentle reminder to keep it real.
5. Dictionary.com – Demure
“Very demure, very mindful” was everywhere! The word went viral after Jools Lebron’s TikTok video. Someone who is modest and understated, a stark contrast to the loud and chaotic world we often find ourselves in. But let’s be real, who doesn’t want a little bit of that demure energy every now and then? Gives off very ladylike vibes, doesn’t it? It’s the perfect word for anyone who has mastered the art of being calm, cool, and collected. (I could never!)
Whether you’re manifesting your goals, owning your brat moments, or just trying to keep your brain rot under control, these words paint the perfect picture of where we’ve been and where we’re heading. All these words have unconsciously paved their way into our everyday vocabulary. Who knew vocabulary could be so entertaining?
Sources: OUP, Dictionary.Com, Merriam-Webster, Cambridge, Collins
