The word 'slop' has gained traction online, particularly with the rise of generative artificial intelligence, leading to its selection as Merriam-Webster's 2025 Word of the Year. According to Greg Barlow, the president of Merriam-Webster, this word encapsulates a transformative technology that can be fascinating, annoying, and even ridiculous.
Historically, 'slop' meant soft mud, but it has evolved to indicate digital content that lacks quality, often produced en masse using AI. Examples include absurd videos, cheesy propaganda, and misleading fake news that appears authentic.
As AI technologies proliferate, concerns about misinformation and copyright violations have surfaced, especially amid the prevalence of deepfakes and manipulated content across social media platforms. A notable instance involved Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth who shared a doctored image using a familiar children's character to justify military actions.
While 'slop' might evoke images of unpleasantness, Barlow sees it as a hopeful sign. People are increasingly aware of the prevalence of poor-quality content and are desiring more authentic and genuine interactions. This reflects a larger societal discourse on the importance of integrity in the media landscape.
Merriam-Webster's selection process analyzes increases in word searches, ultimately determining which words best capture the essence of the year. In 2025, 'slop' represents ongoing tensions in balancing technological advancements with the demand for real human creativity.
Other words considered include 'gerrymander', 'touch grass', and 'conclave', illustrating the year's intriguing linguistic and cultural developments.
