The English language continuously adapts, reflecting the cultural shifts of its speakers. Recent revisions to the Cambridge Dictionary reflect this, with the inclusion of over 6,000 new words and expressions. Among these, Gen Z creations such as “skibidi,” “delulu,” and “tradwife” are prominent. Their presence in the dictionary indicates that the internet, particularly Gen Z culture, is reshaping how English is both spoken and interpreted. The word “skibidi,” originating from the popular YouTube series Skibidi Toilet, has transitioned from online slang to mainstream usage. “Delulu,” short for delusional, has also gained widespread use, moving beyond fan communities and hashtags. Similarly, the term “tradwife” captures a cultural shift in social media. The inclusion of these terms, along with “lewk,” “inspo,” and even “mouse jiggler,” emphasizes how our online interactions influence the language we use. Colin McIntosh, Cambridge Lexical Programme Manager, recognizes the rare phenomenon of transient slang making its way into the dictionary. The shift goes beyond these specific words, marking a broader cultural phenomenon. Traditional dictionaries, once the authority on “proper” English, are adapting to keep pace with online innovation. The fast-paced evolution of language means that terms can go from being coined online to being used in regular conversations in months. Ultimately, the evolution of these terms marks a turning point in the evolution of the English language.
From Memes to Mainstream: How Gen Z Slang is Redefining English
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