Dictionary.com’s 2024 Word of the Year: Cultural Reflections and Climate Awareness

Dictionary.com’s 2024 Word of the Year is “demure,” with “extreme weather” closely following. The selections are based on trends in media and climate events, particularly the increase in extreme weather occurrences globally. The rise of specific terms reflects both cultural shifts and pressing societal issues, particularly related to climate change.

In 2024, Dictionary.com announced that “demure” was designated as the Word of the Year, reflecting significant cultural changes surrounding its traditional meaning. Second place went to the term “extreme weather,” which gained traction due to increasing climate events impacting global weather patterns. The decision was based on extensive analysis of social media trends, search data, and current events, emphasizing society’s evolving language and its response to pressing issues.

The rise of the term “extreme weather” parallels alarming weather occurrences, including droughts, flooding, and wildfires throughout the world. Terms like “brainrot,” “brat,” and “Midwest nice” also featured in the shortlist, each illustrating unique aspects of contemporary discourse. The lexicographers at Dictionary.com noted a staggering surge in the use of “demure”—by approximately 1,200%—likened to a popular trend on TikTok, showing how digital platforms significantly influence language development.

The historical origins of the expression “extreme weather” trace back to the 1570s, amidst the Little Ice Age, a period marked by notable climate shifts, crop failures, and societal challenges. Although there is variability in its definition, the World Meteorological Organization identifies extreme weather events as rare occurrences that are significant for their magnitude and timing, including heatwaves, tornadoes, and tropical storms. Recent analysis indicates that climate change is exacerbating these extreme phenomena, creating a pressing need for awareness and dialogue.

The annual Word of the Year selection by Dictionary.com not only highlights popular terms but also reflects broader societal trends and concerns. The choice of “demure” signifies a cultural shift towards appreciating understated elegance and confidence, rejecting prior limiting connotations. In contrast, the second-place term “extreme weather” underscores the increasing urgency of climate discussions prompted by recent catastrophic weather events. Such terms reveal insights into the collective consciousness, indicating shifts in both language and awareness toward significant global issues, including climate change.

In summary, the designation of “demure” as the Word of the Year for 2024 symbolizes a cultural evolution in self-presentation, while the rising prominence of “extreme weather” underscores the critical impact of climate events on language. As society navigates these challenges, the vocabulary we employ becomes crucial in shaping and expressing our understanding of contemporary issues. The inclusion of other terms further enriches the discourse, reflecting diverse aspects of human experience in an increasingly interconnected world.

Original Source: www.foxweather.com