Dictionary.com's Word Of The Year: Trends & Past Winners

The Dictionary.com Word of the Year is an annual tradition that reflects the cultural zeitgeist and the words that have significantly impacted our language and conversations. This article explores the trends behind the selections, highlights past winners, and examines the criteria used to choose the Word of the Year.

What is Dictionary.com's Word of the Year?

Dictionary.com's Word of the Year is a word or phrase selected annually that has demonstrated a significant impact on the English language and reflects the major trends, events, and concerns of the year. The selection process involves analyzing search data, news articles, social media, and other sources to identify words that have seen a notable increase in usage and interest.

How is the Word of the Year Chosen?

The selection of Dictionary.com's Word of the Year involves a rigorous process that takes into account several factors:

Data Analysis

Dictionary.com analyzes its extensive search data to identify words that have experienced a significant surge in lookups throughout the year. This data provides insights into the topics and events that have captured public attention.

Editorial Assessment

Linguists and lexicographers at Dictionary.com conduct an editorial assessment to evaluate the cultural relevance, linguistic impact, and overall significance of potential candidates. They consider how the word has been used in news, social media, and everyday conversations.

Cultural Relevance

The Word of the Year should reflect the major cultural, social, and political themes of the year. It should encapsulate the prevailing sentiments, debates, and changes that have shaped public discourse.

Linguistic Impact

The chosen word should have a notable impact on the English language, whether through its increased usage, evolving definition, or contribution to new expressions and idioms.

Past Words of the Year

Dictionary.com has been selecting a Word of the Year since 2010, each reflecting the unique challenges, advancements, and discussions that defined the year. Here’s a look at some past winners:

2020: Pandemic

Unsurprisingly, "pandemic" was chosen as the Word of the Year for 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic dominated global headlines and everyday conversations, leading to a massive surge in searches for the word and related terms.

2018: Misinformation

In 2018, "misinformation" was selected to highlight the pervasive spread of false or inaccurate information, particularly through social media and online platforms. This choice underscored the growing concerns about the reliability of information sources.

2017: Complicit

The word "complicit" was chosen in 2017 to reflect the debates surrounding political complicity and moral responsibility. Its selection highlighted the public's focus on accountability and ethical considerations in a polarized environment.

2016: Xenophobia

In 2016, "xenophobia" was chosen following significant global events, including the Brexit vote and the U.S. presidential election. The selection reflected growing anxieties about immigration, cultural differences, and national identity.

2015: Identity

"Identity" was selected as the Word of the Year in 2015 to capture the increasing focus on personal and collective identities, as well as the discussions around gender, race, and social equality.

Trends in Word of the Year Selections

Several trends emerge when examining Dictionary.com's past Word of the Year selections:

Reflection of Current Events

The chosen words often directly relate to major news events, political developments, and social movements. They serve as a snapshot of the year's most pressing issues and concerns.

Focus on Social and Political Issues

Many Words of the Year highlight significant social and political debates, including issues related to misinformation, identity, inequality, and justice. This trend underscores the role of language in shaping and reflecting societal values.

Impact of Technology and Digital Communication

The rise of social media and digital communication has influenced word choices, with selections often reflecting the impact of technology on language and culture. Words related to online interactions, misinformation, and digital activism have been prominent in recent years.

The Significance of the Word of the Year

The Dictionary.com Word of the Year is more than just a linguistic exercise; it's a cultural marker that captures the essence of a particular year. By selecting a word that resonates with the public, Dictionary.com provides a valuable perspective on the trends, challenges, and changes that have shaped our world.

Cultural Commentary

The Word of the Year serves as a cultural commentary, offering insights into the collective consciousness and the issues that have dominated public discourse. It provides a lens through which we can examine the year's most significant events and trends.

Linguistic Documentation

The selection of a Word of the Year helps document the evolution of language and the ways in which words adapt to reflect changing societal needs and concerns. It highlights the dynamic nature of language and its role in shaping our understanding of the world.

Educational Value

By exploring the Word of the Year and its historical context, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of the events and issues that have shaped the year. This educational value contributes to a more informed and engaged citizenry.

How to Use the Word of the Year

While the Word of the Year is a reflection of broader trends and discussions, it can also be used in everyday conversations and writing to add context and depth. Here are some ways to incorporate the Word of the Year into your vocabulary:

Understanding Context

Take the time to understand the historical and cultural context of the Word of the Year. This will help you use it appropriately and effectively in your communications.

Reflecting on Personal Experiences

Consider how the Word of the Year relates to your personal experiences and observations. Reflect on the ways in which the word has impacted your life and the lives of those around you.

Engaging in Discussions

Use the Word of the Year as a starting point for discussions about current events, social issues, and cultural trends. Engage in thoughtful conversations and share your perspectives with others. — Kingston, Jamaica: Accurate Weather Forecast & Updates

The Future of Word of the Year Selections

As language continues to evolve and adapt to new technologies and cultural shifts, the Dictionary.com Word of the Year will likely continue to reflect these changes. Future selections may highlight emerging trends in artificial intelligence, climate change, social justice, and other critical areas.

Focus on Global Issues

Future selections may increasingly focus on global issues and interconnected challenges, reflecting the growing awareness of international events and their impact on local communities.

Embracing Digital Language

The influence of digital communication and online culture will likely continue to shape Word of the Year selections. Words and phrases related to social media, online activism, and digital identity may become more prominent.

Promoting Linguistic Diversity

Dictionary.com may also prioritize selections that promote linguistic diversity and inclusivity, highlighting words and expressions from underrepresented communities and cultures.

Conclusion

The Dictionary.com Word of the Year is a significant cultural tradition that offers valuable insights into the trends, events, and concerns that have shaped our world. By reflecting on past selections and understanding the criteria behind the choices, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the power of language and its role in shaping our understanding of the present and future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of Dictionary.com's Word of the Year?

The purpose of Dictionary.com's Word of the Year is to reflect the cultural zeitgeist and highlight words that have significantly impacted our language and conversations throughout the year.

How does Dictionary.com choose the Word of the Year?

Dictionary.com chooses the Word of the Year through a rigorous process that includes analyzing search data, editorial assessment, cultural relevance, and linguistic impact.

When did Dictionary.com start selecting a Word of the Year?

Dictionary.com started selecting a Word of the Year in 2010.

Can the Word of the Year be a phrase?

Yes, the Word of the Year can be a phrase if it meets the criteria of cultural relevance and linguistic impact. — MAGA Loyalty: Breaking The Cult Of Trump With Steven Hassan

How can the Word of the Year help in understanding current events?

The Word of the Year serves as a cultural commentary, offering insights into the collective consciousness and the issues that have dominated public discourse, thus providing a lens through which we can examine the year's most significant events and trends. — Home2 Suites San Antonio: Your Guide To A Great Stay

What trends can be observed from past Word of the Year selections?

Trends include a reflection of current events, a focus on social and political issues, and the impact of technology and digital communication on language and culture.

How might future Word of the Year selections evolve?

Future selections may focus more on global issues, embrace digital language, and promote linguistic diversity and inclusivity.