The Oxford University Press has named “brain rot” as the word of the year.
Brain rot describes the feeling of deterioration of a person’s mental state due to overconsumption of content.
A lot of social media users are facing this issue and brain rot saw a 230% increase in usage in 2024 alone.
We often find ourselves mindlessly scrolling through Instagram, going through multiple reels at the same time, often for hours at length. This mindless social media scrolling has now given birth to the Oxford Word of the Year 2024. The Oxford University Press has named “brain rot” as the word of the year. The choice also hints at the negative side of social media and the impact it is having on our brains, particularly Gen Z and Gen Alpha.
What does brain rot mean?
Brain rot describes the feeling of deterioration of a person’s mental state due to overconsumption of trivial or unchallenging content, particularly online. Basically, low-quality content that we are all hooked on through short-form videos. It also adds to why social media and digital media are often blamed for reducing attention spans and fostering addictive behaviors.
A lot of social media users are facing this issue and brain rot saw a 230% increase in usage in 2024 alone. It was largely driven by social media platforms and online discussions. Public votes and language analysis helped it become the Oxford Word of the Year 2024.
The rise in the usage of this word has also given rise to concerns. Even though the word might sound like casual slang, it is a more serious issue that needs to be discussed.
The side effects of digital overconsumption on mental health are pretty grave.
Casper Grathwohl, President of Oxford Languages, said that younger generations are using “brain rot” not just to criticise digital media but also to acknowledge their role in spreading it. Hopefully, this move by the Oxford University Press will help spread awareness and people will take control of their mental health and try to avoid this addictive habit.
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Mustafa Khan
Mustafa is new on the block and is a tech geek who is currently working with Digit as a News Writer. He tests the new gadgets that come on board and writes for the news desk. He has found his way with words and you can count on him when in need of tech advice. No judgement. He is based out of Delhi, he’s your person for good photos, good food recommendations, and to know about anything GenZ. View Full Profile
