Brain Rot Chosen as Oxford 2024 Word of the Year
"Brain rot" has been named the Oxford Word of the Year for 2024, following a public vote in which more than 37,000 people participated. This term emerged as the definitive choice after weeks of public conversation and expert analysis, surpassing other contenders like “lore,” “demure,” “romantasy,” and “slop.”
The term "brain rot" refers to the supposed deterioration of a person's mental or intellectual state, particularly as a result of overconsuming trivial or low-quality online content. In today's context, it specifically addresses concerns about the negative effects of excessive screen time and digital media consumption, especially on social media platforms like TikTok. Its usage saw a significant rise, with a 230% increase between 2023 and 2024, reflecting a broader societal concern.
The phrase first appeared in 1854 in Henry David Thoreau's book Walden, where Thoreau criticized society's shift toward simpler, less intellectually demanding ideas. Thoreau equated this trend to a "brain-rot," calling for a cure for the intellectual decline he observed. Over time, the term has evolved, and in the digital age, it resonates more with concerns about the impact of endless consumption of low-value, often absurd content found online.
In 2024, "brain rot" has gained significant traction among younger generations, particularly Gen Z and Gen Alpha, who engage with viral online trends and memes. Popular content like Alexey Gerasimov's "Skibidi Toilet" videos and "Only in Ohio" memes has contributed to the term’s cultural relevance. While often used humorously, the phrase has sparked more serious discussions about mental health, especially in relation to young people’s online habits. Some mental health organizations have even published guidelines on how to recognize and prevent "brain rot."
Casper Grathwohl, President of Oxford Languages, remarked on the growing influence of digital culture on language, noting that "brain rot" captures the potential dangers of overconsuming online content. The selection reflects a shift in societal conversations about technology and its impact on our daily lives.
This marks a significant moment in the ongoing dialogue about the intersection of language, technology, and mental health, with "brain rot" representing both a critique of modern digital culture and a reflection of the changing ways we engage with information.