Local sources from United Kingdom: The Guardian, Sky News.
UK coverage: The Guardian.
The English language continues to evolve rapidly, mirroring the dynamic landscape of global communication, particularly influenced by the digital age. The Cambridge Dictionary’s recent update, which includes the addition of words like ‘skibidi’, ‘tradwife’, ‘delulu’, ‘broligarchy’, and several others, underscores the significant impact of internet culture and social media on our linguistic practices. This year, the lexicon has expanded by 6,000 entries, a testament to the dictionary’s commitment to capturing the essence of contemporary English as it is spoken and written across the globe.
Colin McIntosh, the dictionary’s lexical program manager, emphasized the importance of these additions, noting their expected longevity in the language. The viral nature of ‘skibidi’, originating from an animated video, has led to its widespread use, often to humorously underscore statements. Meanwhile, ‘tradwife’ highlights a growing trend among socially conservative influencers on social media, advocating for traditional homemaking roles. This concept, dating back to at least 2020, has found resonance among certain demographics, showcasing the intersection of linguistic evolution and societal trends.
‘Delulu’, an abbreviation of delusional, reflects a broader post-truth worldview, initially coined to describe overly enthusiastic K-pop fans but now broadened in its application. Additionally, ‘broligarchy’—a blend of ‘bro’ and ‘oligarchy’—points to the influence of affluent men in the tech industry seeking political influence, while ‘mouse jiggler’ and ‘work spouse’ speak to nuances of workplace culture in an increasingly digital and remote working environment.
The breadth of this year’s additions, from ‘lewk’—a term denoting a distinctive look or style, to words addressing environmental concerns and remote work, illustrates the Cambridge Dictionary’s approach to incorporating real-world English usage. This strategy ensures that the dictionary remains a relevant and accurate reflection of language as it evolves under the influence of internet culture, social media trends, and global events. The inclusion of these new entries not only enriches the English lexicon but also provides insights into the cultural and social dynamics that shape our communication.
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