Oxford Dictionary Word of the Year: Toxic
Short-list of finalists:
Cakeism - Primarily a word used in the UK, cakeism is the belief that it is possible to enjoy or take advantage of both of two desirable but mutually exclusive alternatives at once.
Gammon - Typically used in the UK as a derogatory term for an older middle-class white man whose face becomes flushed due to anger when expressing political (typically right-wing) opinions.
Gaslighting - The action of manipulating someone by psychological means into accepting a false depiction of reality or doubting their own sanity.
Incel -An incel is a member of an online community of young men who consider themselves unable to attract women sexually. Typically, they hold views that are hostile towards men and women who are sexually active.
Orbiting - Orbiting is the action of abruptly withdrawing from direct communication with someone while still monitoring, and sometimes responding to, their activity on social media
Overtourism -An excessive number of tourist visits to a popular destination or attraction, resulting in damage to the local environment and historical sites and in poorer quality of life for residents.
Techlash - A strong and widespread negative reaction to the growing power and influence of large technology companies, particularly those based in Silicon Valley.
Covfefe an obvious snub.
Previous winners:
2017: Youthquake
2016: Post-Truth
2015:
- literally this emoji
2014: Vape
2013: Selfie
Short-list of finalists:
Cakeism - Primarily a word used in the UK, cakeism is the belief that it is possible to enjoy or take advantage of both of two desirable but mutually exclusive alternatives at once.
Gammon - Typically used in the UK as a derogatory term for an older middle-class white man whose face becomes flushed due to anger when expressing political (typically right-wing) opinions.
Gaslighting - The action of manipulating someone by psychological means into accepting a false depiction of reality or doubting their own sanity.
Incel -An incel is a member of an online community of young men who consider themselves unable to attract women sexually. Typically, they hold views that are hostile towards men and women who are sexually active.
Orbiting - Orbiting is the action of abruptly withdrawing from direct communication with someone while still monitoring, and sometimes responding to, their activity on social media
Overtourism -An excessive number of tourist visits to a popular destination or attraction, resulting in damage to the local environment and historical sites and in poorer quality of life for residents.
Techlash - A strong and widespread negative reaction to the growing power and influence of large technology companies, particularly those based in Silicon Valley.
Covfefe an obvious snub.
Previous winners:
2017: Youthquake
2016: Post-Truth
2015:
- literally this emoji2014: Vape
2013: Selfie
