“Parasocial Declared 2025 Word of the Year by Cambridge Dictionary”

Cambridge Dictionary has announced “parasocial” as its Word of the Year for 2025. This term describes a unique psychological bond where individuals feel a connection to someone they do not personally know, including artificial intelligence entities. The origin of “parasocial” dates back to 1956, when sociologists Donald Horton and Richard Wohl introduced it to illustrate how television audiences formed deep, one-sided relationships with TV personalities.

Significance of “Parasocial” in Today’s Context

The relevance of parasocial relationships has surged in recent years, particularly with the rise of social media and digital engagement. Many people now form these connections with celebrities, influencers, and online figures. A notable example is Taylor Swift, whose recent engagement to NFL player Travis Kelce sparked emotional discussions among fans, even though most have never met the couple.

Another example is British singer Lily Allen. Her recent album “West End Girl” has ignited a growing interest in her personal life, showcasing how public figures influence their audience’s emotions.

The Growing Influence of AI

As artificial intelligence technology advances, concerns about parasocial relationships with AI, such as chatbots like ChatGPT, have gained attention. Colin McIntosh, a lexicographer at Cambridge Dictionary, stated that these dynamics capture the essence of 2025 and reflect ongoing language evolution. He emphasized that while the term originated in academia, it has entered mainstream conversation, attracting millions of users who engage or are curious about these relationships.

Expert Insights

Simone Schnall, a Professor of Experimental Social Psychology at the University of Cambridge, praised the selection of parasocial as the Word of the Year. She noted that the term elucidates how modern fandoms and celebrity culture have transformed, particularly with AI’s role in online interactions. Schnall warned that many individuals may develop unhealthy attachments to influencers, leading to a misleading sense of familiarity and trust in one-sided relationships.

Additional Words of the Year

Cambridge Dictionary also highlighted other impactful words for 2025. Among them are:

• Slop: Content regarded as low quality, especially when generated by AI.
• Memeify: The act of transforming an event, image, or person into a meme.
• Additionally, the dictionary added over 6,000 new words, including “delulu,” “skibidi,” and “tradwife.”

The acknowledgment of “parasocial” as the 2025 Word of the Year reflects the evolving dynamics of social connections in an age dominated by technology and media.