“Parasocial: Cambridge Dictionary’s Word of the Year After Swift Engagement”
Cambridge Dictionary has declared “parasocial” as its Word of the Year for 2025, reflecting a growing phenomenon among fans. This term describes the one-sided emotional connections individuals often form with celebrities or fictional characters. These connections have surged in popularity in recent years.
Understanding Parasocial Relationships
The term “parasocial” refers to a connection that someone feels towards a famous person, character, or even an artificial intelligence. Over the last 70 years, it has transitioned from an academic concept to mainstream usage, as noted by Colin McIntosh, the lexical program manager at Cambridge Dictionary.
Engagement Metrics
- Cambridge Dictionary reported increased lookups for the term “parasocial.”
- The announcement follows a notable example involving pop star Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce’s engagement.
Fans celebrated this moment, showcasing their emotional ties to Swift despite lacking personal acquaintance with her or Kelce.
Potential Drawbacks of Parasocial Bonds
While these relationships can seem harmless, they can lead to troubling dynamics. Simone Schnall, a professor of experimental social psychology at the University of Cambridge, highlights risks associated with intense parasocial connections.
- Individuals may feel they truly “know” celebrities.
- There can be an extreme loyalty to influencers.
- The relationships are fundamentally one-sided, often leading to misguided trust.
With the rise of social media and online influencers, Schnall warns that many people, particularly younger individuals, are increasingly forming unhealthy attachments.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence
Parasocial relationships are evolving further due to interactions with artificial intelligence. AI tools like ChatGPT are often perceived as companions or sources of support, contributing to an illusion of genuine relationships. This phenomenon raises concerns about collective thinking and emotional dependency on technology.
Comparison with Other Dictionaries
Cambridge Dictionary’s selection of “parasocial” contrasts with Dictionary.com’s choice of “67” as its Word of the Year for 2025, highlighting differing trends in language and cultural reflection.
Overall, the concept of parasocial relationships is becoming an important part of modern social dynamics. Awareness of their implications can help individuals navigate their emotional connections with public figures and artificial intelligences.
