Collins Dictionary has released its annual list of ten words that encapsulate the spirit of 2025, with the AI-centric “vibe coding” earning the title of Word of the Year. The list spans the major themes of our time, from technological disruption and workplace evolution to new travel trends.
The winner, “vibe coding,” refers to the use of AI to translate natural language into computer code. Its win, based on a “huge increase in usage” since February, highlights the profound impact of AI. This “tech-heavy” list also included the AI-insult “clanker,” the tech-elite term “broligarchy,” and the self-optimization term “biohacking.”
The list also captured new lifestyle trends. “Coolcation” was recognized, defined as a holiday in a place with a cool climate, reflecting a potential shift away from sun-seeking travel. “Micro-retirement,” a break taken between jobs, also made the list, pointing to changing career philosophies.
The modern workplace gave us “taskmasking,” the art of faking productivity. Economic anxieties were represented by “Henry,” an acronym for “high earner, not rich yet.” Finally, social media culture contributed “aura farming” (curating a cool persona) and “glaze” (excessive flattery).
This list, drawn from the 24-billion-word Collins Corpus, provides a comprehensive snapshot of how our language is adapting to new social, economic, and technological realities.