Merriam-Webster Names 'Slop' Word of the Year, Highlighting AI Content Deluge

Merriam-Webster has announced 'Slop' as its Word of the Year for 2025, a selection that underscores the pervasive impact of low-quality, AI-generated digital content. The esteemed dictionary's human editors highlighted the term's contemporary meaning as 'digital content of low quality that is produced usually in quantity by means of artificial intelligence,' reflecting a year characterized by an inescapable flood of such material across online platforms.

The dictionary's blog post further elaborated on the term's historical context, tracing its origins from the 1700s, where it first meant 'soft mud,' and later, in the 1800s, evolved to signify 'food waste' or 'rubbish of little to no value.' This etymological journey effectively frames the current digital landscape, where the concept of 'slop' now applies to content churned out by AI, often met with a mix of annoyance and avid consumption by the public.

This recognition by Merriam-Webster draws attention to a critical shift in content creation, where AI's rapid advancement is leading to both innovation and a concerning volume of subpar material. As we navigate this evolving digital environment, it becomes increasingly important for creators and consumers alike to prioritize quality, authenticity, and human ingenuity, ensuring that the digital realm remains a space for meaningful engagement and valuable information, rather than being overwhelmed by undifferentiated 'slop.' This emphasis on discernment and the pursuit of excellence can guide us toward a more enriching and thoughtful online experience.