Merriam-Webster Names "Slop" the Word of 2025

In recent times, the term "slop," associated with disturbing, wacky, and obviously fabricated content, has gained traction, culminating in its selection as Merriam-Webster's word of the year for 2025.

This word encapsulates the kind of low-grade digital media that has surged, especially with the prevalence of AI technology. Greg Barlow, the head of Merriam-Webster, refers to it as a reflection of both our fascination and irritation with the bizarre and often quirky outcomes of AI creativity.

Originally, "slop" referred to soft sludge back in the 18th century, but its meaning has metamorphosed to include subpar digital creations, typically the handiwork of artificial intelligence.

The Digital Age's "Slop"

In simpler terms, today's "slop" can be absurd internet clips, peculiar advertising visuals, cheesy manipulations, or articles passing for real news, often created by AI forgeries.

The advent of AI video-generation tools has been remarkable. They can produce lifelike sequences from mere textual descriptions. However, the resulting plethora of these images online, particularly those featuring or distorting public personas, has fueled concerns about misinformation and digital ethics.

Though misleading content online isn't new, it has now become more accessible and is sometimes wielded for political purposes.

Finding Positivity in "Slop"

Where some may see chaos, others find a beacon. The surge in interest around the word suggests a collective recognition of and a yearning for authentic and valuable content.

Barlow mentioned that the increased awareness of 'slop' heralds a demand for sincerity in digital media, opposing the perceived encroachment of AI.

How Words Are Chosen

Each year, Merriam-Webster analyzes data on word lookups and usage, selecting a word that encapsulates the year’s essence. Their method sifts through consistent contenders to spotlight one term that has mirrored society’s pulse that year.

The process became an annual endeavor in 2003, exemplifying the language and sentiment of the times.

Notable Mentions

Apart from 'slop,' several other expressions were in contention for the spotlight, including terms born from social media culture and those reflecting societal dynamics.

This ongoing dialogue of language evolution underscores not only the resilience of spoken and written exchange but also its adaptability amidst rapid technological advancements.