Cambridge Dictionary has confirmed that internet culture is here to stay with the addition of several new words popularised by the TikTok generation, including "skibidi", "tradwife" and "delulu". The latest update reflects the growing influence of social media platforms on everyday language.
Colin McIntosh, the dictionary's lexical programme manager, said: "It's not every day you get to see words like 'skibidi' and 'delulu' make their way into the Cambridge Dictionary. We only add words where we think they'll have staying power." He added that internet culture is changing the English language in a fascinating way.
Skibidi, which gained popularity through the viral animated series Skibidi Toilet on YouTube, is defined as a word that can mean "cool" or "bad", or be used as a joke with no real meaning. However, the US writer and artist Lee Escobedo has criticised the phenomenon, describing it as "brainrot" that encapsulates a generation "fluent in irony but starved for meaning". Tradwife refers to socially conservative influencers who celebrate looking after their husbands and homes, often posting about it on social media.
Delulu, an abbreviation of delusional, originated among K-pop fans over a decade ago. The dictionary defines it as believing things that are not real or true, usually because you choose to. The term has become associated with a post-truth world and was used by Australia's prime minister, Anthony Albanese, in parliament this year. Also added is "broligarchy", a blend of "bro" and "oligarchy" describing powerful men in tech who hold political influence. Other entries include "mouse jiggler", a device to fake working from home, and "work spouse", meaning a close workplace confidant.
