The Term ‘Slop’ Claims the Distinction as Merriam-Webster’s This Year’s Word of the Year.
The term “slop” has been selected as Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Year for 2025, indicating that more people than ever might need to get offline, a phrase that itself appears on the dictionary’s top words for the year.
“Our definition for slop as ‘online material of inferior quality that is produced often in large volumes by using artificial intelligence,’” lexicographers explained. “That deluge of content flooding our screens, encapsulated in just a quartet of letters: the English language came through again.”
Beyond Just Online Slang: The Rise of “Slop”
Intrinsically tied to internet culture and gaming, the term “slop” is said to have joined the everyday lexicon around 2023, with its usage starting to climb the following year. This trajectory is supported by search data. While it can refer to a range of items from AI-generated imagery to specific food bowls, the gaming community are likely most familiar with its use concerning a rising phenomenon.
The “Friendslop” Trend
Specifically, “friendslop” games — often low-budget titles focusing on cooperative gameplay designed to create viral social media clips — saw significant popularity in 2025. Games such as Peak, REPO, and RV There Yet? attained serious popularity during this period. Importantly, whereas “slop” can be derogatory, “friendslop” is typically complimentary. These games are often light in tone, offering a way to connect in an increasingly online world.
Additional Key Terms for 2025
Among the year’s picks, the phrase “touch grass” appeared. The term’s ascent has been associated with a speech made in September, though those who know gaming communities will attest it has been a popular jab dating back to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rounding out the list is a notably long term gaining fame on the platform Roblox: “Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg.” This word reportedly features in a *Spelling Bee* title. For the record, it refers to a genuine lake in Massachusetts, which locals call by a simpler name.
In summary, Merriam-Webster’s selections for the year provide a compelling look at the evolving nature of language and digital culture. One might say the picks are pretty on point.
