What is 'slop', Merriam-Webster's 2025 word of the year
What's the story
Merriam-Webster has announced "slop" as its 2025 word of the year. The term refers to low-quality digital content, usually generated by artificial intelligence (AI). In 2025, it perfectly encapsulated the deluge of mediocre online material inundating our screens. "Slop" includes bizarre videos, awkward ads, and fake news that appears real. It also encompasses AI-generated books, dull office reports, and an endless stream of viral clips like talking cats.
Evolution
'Slop' reflects a shift in perception
The term "slop" has evolved over time. In the 1700s, it referred to soft mud. Later, it was used to describe food waste and then worthless rubbish. In 2025, the word reflected a change in tone from fear of AI to sarcasm and mockery. It implied that a lot of AI content still lacks the touch of real human creativity.
Additions
Other new words added to Merriam-Webster's dictionary
Along with "slop," Merriam-Webster also added other new words to its dictionary. One such term is "performative," which refers to doing something mainly for show, not genuine belief or action. It was often used in the context of performative politics, activism, patriotism, and lifestyle trends like making matcha tea just for posting online photos.
Trending terms
'Touch grass' and 'gerrymander' gain popularity
The phrase "touch grass" refers to engaging in real-world activities instead of just online ones. It is often used as a reminder for people who spend too much time on social media to reconnect with their offline lives. The term "gerrymander," which means redrawing voting boundaries to favor one party, also gained traction in US politics throughout 2025.