In 2025, the sheer volume of low-quality, AI-generated content has become so pervasive that Merriam-Webster has declared “slop” as its Word of the Year. This choice isn’t just linguistic; it’s a blunt assessment of the digital landscape, where artificial intelligence floods platforms with content prioritizing quantity over substance.
From Mud to Meaningless Content
Originally used to describe refuse or waste, “slop” now defines the glut of poor-quality digital material: glitching ads, unconvincing deepfakes, and AI-authored texts that barely qualify as writing. Even major brands, like Valentino, have participated in producing this low-effort output. The word’s appeal lies in its visceral, dismissive tone, mirroring the public’s growing exasperation with AI-generated noise.
The Rise of AI-Generated Excess
Tech companies have struggled to manage the explosion of generative AI content in 2025. The ease of mass production has outpaced demand for meaningful engagement, resulting in a digital environment where value is drowned out by volume. Merriam-Webster’s selection acknowledges this trend, suggesting that the cultural response isn’t necessarily fear, but rather wry amusement at the absurdity of it all.
Beyond “Slop”: Other Words That Defined 2025
While “slop” took the top spot, other terms highlight the year’s dominant themes:
- 67 : A Gen Alpha inside joke turned viral slang, reflecting the nonsensical humor of internet subcultures.
- Performative : Used to expose inauthentic behavior done for attention rather than genuine intent.
- Touch grass : An ironic command for digital addicts to reconnect with reality.
- Gerrymander and tariff : Terms driven by political and economic turbulence.
These choices showcase how 2025’s language reflected a diverse range of interests, from internet trends to global events.
Global Consensus: The Age of Digital Waste
Merriam-Webster isn’t alone in its assessment. Oxford University Press chose “rage bait” (content designed to provoke outrage), while Macquarie Dictionary in Australia also spotlighted “AI slop”. Cambridge Dictionary favored “parasocial”, referencing one-sided relationships with online personas, and Dictionary.com embraced the viral meaninglessness of “67”. This convergence suggests a global recognition of digital fatigue, fascination, and frustration.
Why This Matters
The “slop” phenomenon isn’t just about a funny word. It signals deeper shifts in AI development, content moderation, and cultural perception. As automated generation becomes easier, the signal-to-noise ratio will only worsen. Whether for app developers, content curators, or everyday users, the 2025 Word of the Year is a stark reminder that quality remains vital, and language can cut through the noise with brutal clarity.
The selection of “slop” reflects a generation wrestling with the paradox of technological progress: infinite content, diminishing value.
