The English language is ever-evolving, and 2025 brings with it a fresh set of slang words and phrases that reflect both the digital age and changing societal norms. Among the more than 6,000 terms added to the Cambridge Dictionary this year are words like ‘skibidi,’ ‘tradwife,’ and ‘delulu,’ all popularized by social media.
Top New Words You Need to Know
‘Skibidi‘: Defined as a playful term that can mean ‘cool,’ ‘bad,’ or carry no specific meaning at all, its origins trace back to a viral animated YouTube series called ‘Skibidi Toilet.’ Even celebrities like Kim Kardashian have embraced the term, showing its widespread appeal on platforms like Instagram.
‘Tradwife‘: Short for ‘traditional wife,’ this term describes a woman who focuses on domestic duties such as cooking, cleaning, and raising children. Social media has amplified the presence of ‘tradwives,’ particularly those sharing their lifestyle via platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
‘Delulu‘: A clever abbreviation for ‘delusional,’ this term describes someone delightfully out of touch with reality, often by choice. It’s a playful way to poke fun at wishful or exaggerated thinking, especially seen in the context of social media commentary and fan culture.
How Digital Culture Shapes Language
The rise of terms like these highlights how the internet and social media are shaping the English language. Colin McIntosh, lexical program manager of Cambridge Dictionary, emphasized, “Internet culture is changing the English language, and the effect is fascinating to observe.” The Cambridge Dictionary only adds words believed to have lasting relevance, ensuring these aren’t just fleeting trends.
Other notable additions include ‘mouse jiggler‘—a tool used to mimic computer activity during remote work, reflecting changes in workplace dynamics since the pandemic—and ‘broligarchy,’ a term describing a group of wealthy and powerful tech businessmen, coined during Donald Trump’s inauguration.
New relationship-focused entries like ‘work wife‘ and ‘work spouse‘ also resonate with the modern workplace, where professional partnerships can feel like essential support systems.
Capturing the Future of Language
The Cambridge Dictionary uses an extensive language database of over two billion words, analyzing how words are used across different demographics and platforms. McIntosh noted that capturing words like ‘skibidi’ and ‘delulu’ showcases the fascinating interplay between pop culture, digital spaces, and language evolution.
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Whether you use ‘delulu’ in playful banter or discuss cultural shifts like the rise of ‘tradwives,’ staying updated on contemporary language keeps your conversations relevant and engaging. What’s your favorite new word of 2025?