The Cambridge Dictionary has announced a significant update for 2025, incorporating over 6,000 new words, phrases, and meanings. This expansion highlights the growing influence of digital culture and evolving social trends on the English language. Among the newly added terms are "skibidi," "delulu," "tradwife," and "broligarchy," reflecting their widespread use in online communities and contemporary culture.
"Skibidi," popularized by Alexey Gerasimov's viral "Skibidi Toilet" YouTube series, has a versatile meaning that can denote something as good, bad, cool, or peculiar. The series, which began in February 2023, features animated shorts depicting a conflict between toilets with human heads and characters with electronic devices for heads. The term's cultural impact was further noted when North West gifted her mother, Kim Kardashian, a necklace inscribed with "Skibidi Toilet" in October 2024.
"Delulu," a shortened form of "delusional," has been recognized for its extensive use in online discourse. Its integration into mainstream conversation was evident when Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese used the phrase "delulu with no solulu" during a parliamentary debate in 2025, underscoring its widespread adoption.
The term "tradwife," short for "traditional wife," has also been added, reflecting a cultural movement where individuals embrace traditional gender roles, a trend amplified by social media influencers. "Broligarchy," a portmanteau of "bro" and "oligarchy," has been included to describe a small, influential group of wealthy men, particularly within the technology sector, who wield significant power.
Colin McIntosh, lexical programme manager at the Cambridge Dictionary, emphasized the dictionary's commitment to capturing enduring linguistic shifts, stating, "We only add words where we think they'll have staying power." This approach ensures the dictionary remains a relevant resource for understanding contemporary language. Another significant addition is "mouse jiggler," a device or software that simulates computer activity to prevent screens from becoming idle, a term that has become particularly relevant for remote workers navigating the nuances of digital presence and productivity monitoring.
The Cambridge Dictionary's latest update serves as a testament to the continuous evolution of language, effectively capturing the essence of 2025's digital and cultural landscape and highlighting how online phenomena are shaping our everyday vocabulary.