Words of the year 2024: "Brat," "Manifest," and "Brain Rot"
Every year, I find myself eagerly awaiting the Words of the Year announcements. There’s something fascinating about how a single word can encapsulate the mood, conversations, and cultural shifts of an entire year. This year, the words "Brat" and "Manifest" have taken center stage, and I can’t wait to see what the Oxford Word of the Year will bring to the table. It just released "Brain Rot" as the champion.
It got me thinking—how do these words gain their moment in the spotlight? And more importantly, what do they reveal about us, the people who use them? Let’s dive in.
Why Collins’ Word of the Year 2024 "Brat" Stole the Show
I remember when I first heard "brat" being used to describe certain online behaviors. At first, I chuckled. After all, who hasn't used that word to describe a particularly annoying person? But as the year progressed, the term started popping up everywhere, from social media memes to heated debates.
It turns out that "brat" perfectly captured the mood of 2024. It reflects a sense of entitlement, a lack of self-awareness, and a tendency towards self-centered behavior that's often seen online. It's a word that's both humorous and insightful, and it seems to have resonated with people of all ages.
Interestingly, the term gained even more traction thanks to British singer Charli XCX, who used it to describe her latest album and her own personality. Her definition of a "brat" is someone who's confident, unapologetic, and a bit rebellious. This fresh take on the word has further fueled its popularity.
Other shortlisted words in Collins for the word of year 2024
"Manifest" and the Year of Seeking Clarity
Now, Cambridge Dictionary's Word of the Year, “Manifest,” feels like the perfect counterbalance. It's all about intention, purpose, and bringing dreams into reality. This word has been plastered across TikTok videos, self-help books, and even casual conversations.
For me, it's a word that resonates deeply. In a year filled with uncertainty, "manifesting" has been a way to regain a sense of control. I've seen friends create vision boards, watched influencers share their manifestation stories, and even tried it myself—though my dream vacation hasn’t quite materialized yet.
Other shortlisted words in Cambridge for the word of year 2024
Oxford's Public Vote: The People's Word - Brain Rot
Other shortlisted words in Oxford for the word of year 2024
I'm torn between "romantasy" and "dynamic pricing." One reflects our collective desire to escape reality through magical, romantic worlds. The other? A harsh reminder of how our shopping habits are dictated by algorithms and demand.
And then there's "slop," which perfectly captures the skepticism around AI-generated content. As someone who writes for a living, I've seen plenty of "slop" flood the internet—and it's a word that feels particularly apt for the digital age.
After over 37,000 votes, worldwide public discussion, and analysis of language data, Oxford have named 'brain rot' as their Word of the Year for 2024 on December 2. Brain rot is used to describe the negative impact of excessive consumption of low-quality online content, particularly on social media. It shows people's concern about the accelerated process of human world and the need of value.
What These Words Say About Us
As I reflect on these Words of the Year, I see a common thread: they all highlight how we’re grappling with a rapidly changing world. Whether it’s the rise of AI, the pressures of consumerism, or our search for meaning and escapism, these words are more than just trendy—they’re snapshots of where we are as a society.
Your Turn: What’s Your Word of the Year?
Writing this blog has made me curious: what word would you pick to define 2024? Is it one of the official selections, or something entirely personal? Words have a funny way of sticking with us, shaping how we see the world and how we move through it. So, as we close out another year, I’m taking a moment to appreciate the power of language—and to wonder what 2025’s words will reveal about the journey ahead.
Hi, I'm Chelsea Parker, a globetrotter, storyteller, and life enthusiast with a knack for turning everyday experiences into unforgettable lessons. From surviving $20-a-day adventures in Southeast Asia to mastering mindfulness in my daily routine, I share relatable and entertaining tales that inspire you all to explore, grow, and thrive. When i'm not writing, you may find me chasing sunsets, savoring street food, or dreaming up my next big adventure.