Dictionary.com has selected “demure” as the Word of the Year for 2024, with “extreme weather” following closely. The rise in popularity of “demure” by 1,200% highlights a shift toward appreciating understated elegance, while increased usage of “extreme weather” relates to a surge of environmental phenomena. Other contenders include “brainrot” and “Midwest nice,” showcasing the dynamic nature of language influenced by social and environmental factors.
In its fifteenth annual announcement, Dictionary.com has declared “demure” as the 2024 Word of the Year, while the term “extreme weather” closely trailed as a significant contender. The rise in usage of “demure,” a term reflecting modern cultural shifts towards understated elegance, surged by approximately 1,200%, driven largely by social media trends. As climate-related events such as wildfires and flooding gained prominence, the term “extreme weather” also saw increased usage, showcasing the impact of environmental issues on language. The selection process involved an analysis of trends across news, social media, and search data, heightening the relevance of these terms in contemporary discourse. Other notable contenders included “brainrot,” “brat,” “Midwest nice,” and “weird,” each illustrating diverse aspects of societal communication and behavior.
The topic of emerging vocabulary trends is particularly relevant in today’s fast-changing cultural landscape. Dictionary.com tracks word usage not merely as a reflection of language but as a commentary on societal shifts. The selection of words for the Word of the Year is influenced by global events and social phenomena, thereby presenting a panoramic view of contemporary societal concerns. Notably, the term “extreme weather” has historical roots dating back to the 1570s, yet its modern resurgence underscores the growing impact of climate change on everyday language and awareness.
In conclusion, the juxtaposition of the terms “demure” and “extreme weather” in Dictionary.com’s 2024 Word of the Year lineup reflects significant cultural and environmental shifts. With an increasing frequency of extreme weather events, it is evident that language will continue to evolve in correspondence with societal changes. The analysis of these terms illustrates a broader dialogue on how we adapt our communication in response to our world, making it both timely and essential for ongoing discourse.
Original Source: www.foxweather.com
