In a decision that perfectly captures our digital era, the term 'delulu' has been officially crowned the Word of the Year for 2023 by Collins Dictionary. This viral expression, born from TikTok and K-pop fandoms, has transcended its niche origins to become mainstream vocabulary.
From Niche Slang to Cultural Phenomenon
The journey of 'delulu' from internet subculture to dictionary recognition marks a significant moment in how language evolves. Originally shorthand for 'delusional,' the term has been reclaimed by online communities to describe positive, goal-oriented thinking rather than clinical detachment from reality.
The Runners-Up That Defined 2023
While 'delulu' took the top spot, several other digital-era terms made the shortlist:
- Rizz - Charisma or romantic appeal
- Beige flag - Mildly odd relationship traits
- Nepo baby - Children of celebrities
- Debanking - Financial service withdrawal
- Semaglutide - Weight-loss medication
Why 'Delulu' Resonates in Modern Britain
Collins Dictionary editors noted that 'delulu' represents more than just linguistic innovation. It reflects a cultural shift in mental attitude, particularly among younger generations navigating economic uncertainty and social pressures. The term's popularity suggests a collective embrace of optimistic thinking as a coping mechanism.
The TikTok Effect on Language Evolution
This year's selection underscores TikTok's growing influence as a language laboratory. Platform-specific terms are now entering mainstream conversation at unprecedented speed, challenging traditional dictionary curation methods and reflecting how social media shapes contemporary communication.
The recognition of 'delulu' signals that internet culture isn't just influencing language—it's actively rewriting the dictionary, one viral trend at a time.
