Charli XCX fans and language enthusiasts, take note: Collins Dictionary has officially crowned “Brat” as its 2024 Word of the Year. Originally associated with Charli XCX’s album and “brat summer” trend, the term has taken on new cultural significance, leading lexicographers to spotlight it for 2024.
How “Brat” Evolved from a Slang Term to Word of the Year
While “brat” traditionally described a child who behaves badly or annoys others, Collins Dictionary has broadened the definition. Now, “brat” signifies a “confident, independent, and hedonistic attitude,” capturing the bold, unapologetic spirit that marked “brat summer” as both an aesthetic and lifestyle.
According to Collins, “brat” has resonated globally, with fans embracing it as a way to express a rebellious, self-assured identity. “Brat summer” inspired fans to celebrate their individuality, wearing bold colors like slime green and leaning into a “messy” lifestyle that felt liberating.
2024’s Top Words Reflect Pop Culture and Social Media Influence
Joining “brat” on Collins’ list of top words are several terms inspired by pop culture and the ever-evolving language of social media. For instance, “era” made the list due to Taylor Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour, while “supermajority” reflects the global political landscape and the UK general election’s impact on language trends.
Other words on the list include:
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- Yapping: Slang for talking excessively, which gained popularity on TikTok.
- Looksmaxxing: Defined as “attempting to maximize one’s physical attractiveness.”
- Delulu: Short for “deluded,” used humorously on social media.
- Rawdogging: Originally slang for unprotected sex, now widely used to describe tackling situations without external support, like taking a long flight without entertainment.
- Brainrot: Refers to a lack of mental clarity caused by overconsumption of low-quality online content.
New Language Trends from Gen Z and Gen Alpha
The 2024 Word of the Year list highlights language trends driven by younger generations. Words like “anti-tourism,” reflecting resistance to large-scale tourism, and “romantasy,” a fantasy subgenre with steamy romance, emphasize the influence of Gen Z and Gen Alpha on modern vocabulary.
A Look at Collins Dictionary’s Process
Alex Beecroft, managing director of Collins, noted the diverse sources of language innovation this year. By monitoring a 20-billion-word database and analyzing various media, Collins compiles its Word of the Year list to reflect shifting cultural values and emerging trends.
As language evolves, terms like “brat” not only capture a moment but inspire individuals to define their identities in new ways. Whether it’s a throwback to “brat summer” or an exploration of new terms, Collins’ list reflects the cultural pulse of 2024, making “brat” a fitting choice for Word of the Year.
