The Oxford University Press word of the year is 'brain rot'
Definition and Significance
Many of us have experienced it firsthand, and now it has been officially recognized: "brain rot" has been crowned as the word of the year by Oxford dictionaries.
Rising Popularity
Oxford University Press revealed on Dec. 2 that the impactful phrase "brain rot" saw a significant surge in usage in 2024, with a 230 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Meaning of 'Brain Rot'
According to Oxford, "brain rot" refers to "the perceived decline in an individual's mental or intellectual capacity, often attributed to excessive consumption of trivial or unchallenging content, particularly online."
Selection Process
The word of the year is chosen to reflect a significant theme from the preceding 12 months. "Brain rot" was selected through a combination of public voting and analysis by Oxford lexicographers, triumphing over five other finalists.
Historical Context
Despite its modern connotation, the term "brain rot" dates back to Henry David Thoreau's 1854 work "Walden," highlighting a longstanding concern about intellectual stagnation.
Impact of Virtual Life
Casper Grathwohl, President of Oxford Languages, noted that in contemporary usage, "brain rot" underscores the perceived risks of digital lifestyles and how individuals choose to spend their leisure time.
Public Reception
Grathwohl added, "This choice reflects the ongoing discourse on the intersection of humanity and technology, resonating with a wide audience and earning its status as the word of the year."
Previous Selections
Last year's word of the year was "rizz," focusing on charisma, while Collins Dictionary's choice for 2024 is "brat," inspired by a popular album title that encapsulated the essence of summer living.
