Defining Our Times

In 2024, Oxford University Press selected "brain rot" as its Word of the Year. This term describes the supposed decline in a person's mental or intellectual state, especially due to overconsumption of trivial or unchallenging material—particularly online content.​

The phrase gained popularity among younger generations, often used humorously to describe binge-watching memes or scrolling through endless videos. However, it also highlights real concerns about how excessive screen time and low-quality content might affect our brains.​

Interestingly, the term isn't new. It first appeared in Henry David Thoreau's 1854 book Walden, where he criticized the decline of intellectual standards in society.

Your Task:

Imagine you're part of the Oxford University Press team. Your mission: choose a new "Word of the Year" that reflects something important or trending in today's world.

In your response, include:

📝 The Word: Create a new word or select an existing one.
📖 Definition: What does it mean?
🌐 Relevance: Why is this word significant in today's society?
💬 Usage: Use the word in a sentence.​

Bonus: Design a mini-poster or social media post announcing your Word of the Year!