Language never sits still. This year, the Cambridge Dictionary added more than 6,000 new words—a record-breaking update shaped by internet culture, global trends, and everyday life. At APC Publishers, we’ve picked out 20 of our favourites that stood out to us. Some will make you laugh, some capture social shifts, and others express feelings we didn’t quite have the words for—until now.
Here are 20 of the newest words added to major dictionaries this year.
- Delulu
Short for “delusional,” this playful slang is used when someone is out of touch with reality—but in a funny or harmless way.
- Skibidi
A viral internet word that doesn’t always mean anything. Depending on context, it can signal something “cool,” “bad,” or just be a silly filler.
- Tradwife
Refers to a woman who embraces traditional homemaker roles and often shares that lifestyle online.
- Broligarchy
A mix of “bro” and “oligarchy,” poking fun at the powerful groups of tech billionaire men shaping the world.
- Mouse Jiggler
Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like—software or a gadget that makes it look like you’re active on your computer when you’re not.
- Lewk
A bold, intentional outfit or appearance. Think fashion that makes a statement.
- Inspo
A shortened way to say “inspiration.” Commonly used when sharing creative or lifestyle ideas online.
- Career Catfishing
When someone accepts a job and then ghosts the employer before ever showing up.
- Brain Flossing
Tuning out stress by listening to relaxing music or soothing background noise.
- Glampervanning
A luxury spin on “van life,” where adventure meets home-like comfort.
- Nanoship
A short-lived romantic fling—tiny in both length and seriousness.
- Celeb Bait
Using fake celebrity photos online to trick or scam people.
- Work Spouse
That close, platonic colleague you rely on like a partner in the workplace.
- Snackable
Describes bite-sized, easy-to-consume content, like a quick TikTok or short article.
- Red Flag / Green Flag
Shorthand in dating or relationships for warning signs (red) or positive signs (green).
- Forever Chemical
Refers to harmful man-made substances that don’t break down easily in the environment.
- Gigil (Tagalog)
That irresistible urge to squeeze something cute—like a puppy or a baby’s cheeks.
- Alamak (Singapore/Malaysia)
An expression of surprise, shock, or dismay—similar to “Oh no!”
- Utepils (Norwegian)
The joy of having a beer outdoors, often in the sunshine.
- Komorebi (Japanese)
A poetic word for the sunlight filtering gently through leaves.
Why These Words Matter
New words reflect how culture shifts. From TikTok slang to borrowed gems from other languages, they show how interconnected the world has become. Some make us laugh, some point to social change, and others capture feelings we didn’t quite have a word for—until now.
