Cambridge Dictionary Adds ‘Skibidi,’ ‘Delulu’ and More to its 2025 Lexicon
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Cambridge, United Kingdom – The Cambridge Dictionary has expanded its collection of words, officially recognizing terms popularized by internet culture and Gen Z. The latest additions-including “skibidi,” “broligarchy,” “inspo,” and “delulu”-reflect the ever-evolving nature of language in the digital age.
The Rise of Internet-Born Words
More than six thousand new words have joined the Cambridge Dictionary in the last year, demonstrating a critically important shift in how language is shaped by online communities. These terms, often originating on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, are increasingly permeating mainstream conversations. The inclusion of these words acknowledges their growing prevalence and cultural impact.
Perhaps the most unexpected addition is “skibidi,” a term originating from a viral video series created by YouTuber DaFuq!?Boom! known as “Skibidi Toilet.” The dictionary defines “skibidi” as a word with variable meanings,ranging from “cool” to “bad,” or used nonsensically as a joke. Phrases like ‘What the skibidi are you doing?’ and ‘That wasn’t very skibidi rizz of you’ have entered mainstream usage,
Cambridge University noted in a statement.
The term gained further recognition when Kim Kardashian posted a social media video in October of last year featuring a necklace gifted by her daughter,engraved with the phrase “Skibidi toilet.” This celebrity endorsement underscored the term’s growing cultural footprint.
Did You Know? The Cambridge Dictionary updates its entries multiple times a year to reflect changes in language use, with a particular focus on emerging trends and vocabulary.
Beyond “Skibidi”: Exploring New Additions
the dictionary’s latest update includes several other noteworthy terms. “Broligarchy” refers to groups of influential men in tech, such as Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, and Mark Zuckerberg, who wield significant political power.”Tradwife” is shorthand for “traditional wife,” reflecting a specific lifestyle choice gaining traction online. Other additions include “inspo” (inspiration) and “delulu” (delusional).”lewk” describes one’s style or outfit.
Colin McIntosh, Cambridge Dictionary Lexical Program Manager, emphasized the importance of recognizing these terms. It’s not every day you get to see words like skibidi and delulu make their way into the Cambridge Dictionary. We only add words where we think they’ll have staying power. Internet culture is changing the English language and the effect is interesting to observe and capture in the Dictionary.
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A Historical Trend: Internet Slang Enters the Lexicon
The inclusion of internet-born words is not a new phenomenon.The Oxford English Dictionary added “isekai,” a Japanese anime genre, last year. Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary incorporated “emoji” and “clickbait” in 2015, demonstrating a consistent pattern of recognizing and validating online language. This trend highlights the increasing influence of digital culture on linguistic evolution.
Details remain scarce regarding an upcoming “Skibidi Toilet” project announced last year, though reports suggest involvement from Michael Bay, known for his work on the “transformers” franchise.
Pro Tip: Staying current with evolving language is crucial for effective communication, especially in digital spaces.Recognizing and understanding these new terms can enhance your ability to connect with younger audiences.
| Word | Origin | Definition |
|---|---|---|
| Skibidi | YouTube (DaFuq!?boom!) | A variable term meaning ‘cool,’ ‘bad,’ or used nonsensically. |
| Broligarchy | Internet culture | A group of powerful men in tech seeking political influence. |
| Delulu | Gen Z Slang | Short for “delusional.” |
What impact do you think the increasing influence of internet culture will have on the future of language? do you find these new additions to the dictionary a positive reflection of cultural change, or a sign of linguistic degradation?
Evergreen Context: The Evolution of Language and Digital culture
the ongoing integration of internet slang into established dictionaries underscores a basic truth about language: it is constantly evolving. Historically, new words and phrases have emerged from various subcultures and social movements, gradually gaining wider acceptance.The internet has dramatically accelerated this process, providing a platform for rapid dissemination and adoption of new linguistic trends. This phenomenon is not merely about adding new words; it reflects broader shifts in cultural values, social interactions, and modes of communication. The Cambridge Dictionary’s decision to include terms like “skibidi” and “delulu” is a recognition of this dynamic process and a commitment to documenting the language as it is indeed actually used.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Dictionary Words
- What is “skibidi” and why was it added to the dictionary? “Skibidi” originated from a viral YouTube video and is now recognized as a versatile term with variable meanings.
- What is a “broligarchy”? It refers to a group of powerful men in technology who seek political influence.
- Are these new words here to stay? The Cambridge Dictionary only adds words it believes will have lasting relevance.
- How does internet culture influence language? The internet accelerates the spread of new words and phrases, leading to faster linguistic evolution.
- What other recent slang terms have been added to dictionaries? “Isekai,” “emoji,” and ”clickbait” are examples of internet slang that have gained dictionary recognition.
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