Archive · 17 Sep 2026
Merriam-Webster Adds 1,400 New Words Reflecting Gen Z Language
Merriam-Webster has added 1,400 words and definitions to its dictionary.
Many of the new words come from the internet, technology and everyday life.
“Looksmaxxing” means trying to improve how you look.
“Parasocial” describes a one-sided connection with a celebrity or fictional character.
“Vibe coding” and “meme coin” are also now dictionary entries.
The dictionary added “uncanny valley,” which describes discomfort when something artificial looks nearly human.
Editors look for evidence that people use a word often and broadly before adding it.
The update also reflects how artificial intelligence is influencing language and online content.
Merriam-Webster announced 1,400 new words and definitions in its latest dictionary update.
New entries include “looksmaxxing,” “vibe coding,” “parasocial,” “meme coin,” “compute” and “superfood.”
The update includes internet and technology terms such as “uncanny valley” and “cuffing season.”
Merriam-Webster defines “looksmaxxing” as efforts to improve physical appearance and “parasocial” as a one-sided emotional connection.
Editors assess whether words have frequent, widespread and meaningful use before senior editors review proposed additions.
- Who
- Merriam-Webster and its editors added the new dictionary entries.
- What
- The dictionary added 1,400 words and definitions, including terms linked to Gen Z, internet culture, technology and everyday life.
- When
- Merriam-Webster announced the update on Tuesday; the articles do not provide an exact date.
- Where
- In Merriam-Webster’s dictionary.
- Why
- The publisher said the additions reflect frequent, widespread and meaningful changes in how people communicate.
- Publisher
- Merriam-Webster
- Number of additions
- 1,400 new words and definitions
- New terms
- “Looksmaxxing,” “vibe coding,” “parasocial,” “meme coin,” “compute” and “superfood”
- Internet-related additions
- “Uncanny valley” and “cuffing season” are among the other new entries.
- Selection criteria
- Editors consider frequent, widespread and meaningful use.
- Editorial process
- Editors assess evidence, and senior editors review proposed additions; there is no formal committee or advocacy process.
- 2025 Word of the Year
- “Slop,” referring to low-quality digital content generally produced in large quantities using artificial intelligence.