Oxford's word of the Year 2024: ‘Brain Rot’ reflects society’s digital struggles

Oxford University Press has named "brain rot" the Word of the Year for 2024, following a surge in its usage. Chosen by over 37,000 voters and endorsed by linguistic experts, the term highlights growing concerns about the mental and intellectual toll of excessive online consumption.

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"Brain rot" refers to the perceived decline in a person’s cognitive abilities, often caused by overconsumption of trivial or low-quality digital content. The term saw a dramatic 230% increase in usage between 2023 and 2024, reflecting its relevance in a world dominated by online media.

The phrase has its roots in a 1854 passage by philosopher Henry David Thoreau, who used it metaphorically in his book Walden to critique society’s preference for simplistic thinking. Thoreau questioned the focus on curing physical ailments like potato rot, while neglecting the more pervasive "brain rot" caused by shallow, unchallenging ideas.

In today's context, "brain rot" resonates with concerns over the harmful effects of constant exposure to mind-numbing or irrelevant online content, which some believe erodes critical thinking and intellectual engagement. The rise of this term reflects broader anxieties about the influence of the internet on cognitive health and the quality of public discourse in the digital age.