Merriam-Webster has selected 'slop' as its Word of the Year, highlighting a growing concern over the proliferation of low-quality digital content. This decision reflects a broader trend among dictionaries recognizing words that encapsulate our complex relationship with technology, especially artificial intelligence.
The dictionary defines 'slop' as "digital content of low quality that is produced usually in quantity by means of artificial intelligence." This choice points to the increasing volume of content generated by AI, often lacking depth or originality.
Key Takeaways
- 'Slop' is Merriam-Webster's Word of the Year for its relevance to low-quality AI-generated content.
- The term reflects public debate and mixed feelings about AI's impact on creativity.
- Other dictionaries have also chosen tech-related words, such as 'vibe coding' and 'parasocial.'
- Merriam-Webster considered 'touch grass' and 'performative' as other strong contenders.
Understanding the Rise of 'Slop'
The term 'slop' has a long history, dating back to the 1700s when it described "soft mud." By the 1800s, it evolved to mean "food waste" and later, more generally, "rubbish" or "a product of little or no value." Its modern application to digital content, especially that produced by AI, marks a significant shift.
Examples of digital 'slop' include bizarre videos, AI-generated talking animal content, and books written by artificial intelligence. This content often floods online platforms, creating a sense of digital clutter for many users.
"The word sends a little message to AI: when it comes to replacing human creativity, sometimes you don’t seem too superintelligent."
Historical Context of 'Slop'
- 1700s: Meant "soft mud."
- 1800s: Evolved to mean "food waste."
- Modern Day: Refers to "digital content of low quality" often produced by AI.
Public Perception and AI's Role
Merriam-Webster acknowledges that the term 'slop' generates mixed reactions. While some find the content annoying, others consume it readily. This division highlights the ongoing debate about the value and impact of AI in creative fields.
The choice of 'slop' suggests a critical view of AI's current capabilities in creative endeavors. It implies that while AI can produce content in quantity, the quality often falls short of human creativity.
Other Dictionaries Focus on Tech
Merriam-Webster is not alone in highlighting tech-related terms. Other prominent dictionaries have also chosen words reflecting our digital age:
- Collins Dictionary: 'vibe coding'
- Cambridge Dictionary: 'parasocial'
- Oxford Dictionary: 'rage bait'
These selections collectively paint a picture of a society grappling with the pervasive influence of technology and artificial intelligence on daily life and social interactions.
Previous Words of the Year
Merriam-Webster's recent choices have consistently reflected societal shifts. In 2024, the word was 'polarization,' defined as "division into two sharply distinct opposites," reflecting political and social divides. In 2023, 'authentic' was chosen, driven by increased online searches related to AI, celebrity culture, and identity.
Contenders for Word of the Year
Several other words were considered by Merriam-Webster, each offering a unique insight into contemporary culture. One notable candidate was 'gerrymander,' defined as "to divide a state, school district, etc. into political units or election districts that give one group or political party an unfair advantage." This term gained prominence due to redistricting efforts by both Republican and Democratic politicians in the United States seeking electoral benefits.
Another strong contender was the phrase 'touch grass,' which means "to participate in normal activities in the real world especially as opposed to online experiences and interactions." Initially used as an insult towards those spending excessive time online, Merriam-Webster noted that it has transformed into "something of an aspiration" as more people actively seek to reduce their screen time.
The Meaning of 'Performative'
The word 'performative' also made the shortlist. Merriam-Webster defines it as "made or done for show (as to bolster one’s own image or make a positive impression on others)." While applied broadly, a common contemporary usage involves the idea of a "performative male." This describes a man who engages in actions he believes women will appreciate, such as carrying feminist literature in a tote bag, primarily to create a favorable impression rather than out of genuine conviction.
These alternative choices demonstrate the diverse range of linguistic shifts and cultural phenomena that Merriam-Webster considers each year when selecting its most significant word. Each word provides a snapshot of the current social and technological landscape.