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Binge-watch
Originally just “binge” (used for food), the term evolved with streaming culture to mean watching many episodes of a show in one sitting.
Why: The rise of platforms like Netflix created this new behavior and word. -
Sexting
A blend of “sex” and “texting,” it refers to sending sexual content via messages.
Why: Cell phone culture and private digital communication made this term necessary. -
Lifehack
Refers to a clever tip or trick to make everyday tasks easier.
Why: Popularized by productivity blogs and websites. -
Microaggression
A subtle or indirect form of discrimination or insult, often unintentional.
Why: Became important in discussions of race, gender, and identity in academia and activism. -
Crowdfunding
Raising small amounts of money from many people online (e.g., Kickstarter).
Why: New platforms allowed independent creators to fund projects without institutions. -
Subtweet
A tweet that refers to someone without naming them directly.
Why: Emerged from Twitter’s culture of indirect communication and drama. -
Glamping
Short for “glamorous camping,” this word describes luxury camping experiences.
Why: Reflects new lifestyle trends mixing nature with comfort. -
Catfish
To deceive someone online by using a fake identity.
Why: Online dating and social media led to more cases of identity fraud. -
Cancel
Originally meant to delete or reject but now means to withdraw support from a public figure due to problematic behavior.
Why: Social justice movements and internet activism. -
Stan
From an Eminem song, this now means to obsessively support or be a fan of someone.
Why: Pop culture and social media fan communities (e.g., Twitter) spread the term. -
Ghosting
To suddenly cut off communication in a relationship with no explanation.
Why: Became common in digital dating and friendships. -
Finsta
Short for “fake Instagram,” it's a private account used to post personal or less polished content.
Why: Young people created separate identities to share with close friends. -
OK Boomer
A phrase used to dismiss or mock outdated opinions from older generations.
Why: Intergenerational tensions expressed through humor and memes. -
Quaranteam
A blend of “quarantine” and “team,” meaning the group of people you isolated with during COVID-19.
Why: Pandemic life created new social arrangements and language. -
Goblin mode
A humorous term for embracing laziness or messiness instead of productivity or self-improvement.
Why: A post-pandemic reaction to burnout culture and constant self-optimization.