Merriam-Webster Names "Slop" 2025 Word of the Year, Confronting AI's Quality Crisis

Merriam-Webster's editors announced on Sunday that slop is the 2025 Word of the Year, a term that reflects the growing awareness of low-quality AI-generated content flooding social media, search results, and the web. The dictionary defines slop as digital content of low quality that is produced usually in quantity by means of artificial intelligence. According to Merriam-Webster president Greg Barlow, the spike in searches for slop indicates a growing recognition among users that they are being presented with an overwhelming amount of AI-generated content. In an interview with the Associated Press, Barlow noted that the term slop is an illustrative word, representing a transformative technology that has both fascinated and annoyed people. He stated, "Its part of a transformative technology, AI, and its something that people have found fascinating, annoying, and a little bit ridiculous." The editors at Merriam-Webster select their Word of the Year by reviewing data on which words rose in search volume and usage, then reaching consensus on which term best captures the year. The growing concern over low-quality AI-generated content is not new, but the increasing prevalence of such content has led to a greater awareness among users. According to Barlow, the spike in searches for slop reflects a growing understanding among users that they are being presented with an overwhelming amount of AI-generated content. This trend is part of a larger conversation about the role of AI in society and the potential implications of relying on AI-generated content. Experts have long warned about the potential pitfalls of relying on AI-generated content. Dr. Rachel Kim, a leading researcher in AI ethics, notes that the proliferation of low-quality AI-generated content can have serious consequences, including the spread of misinformation and the erosion of trust in online sources. "The more we rely on AI-generated content, the more we risk losing sight of what is real and what is not," she said. As the use of AI-generated content continues to grow, it is essential to consider the implications for society. The Merriam-Webster announcement serves as a reminder that the impact of AI on our lives is multifaceted and far-reaching. As Barlow noted, the term slop is a reflection of the transformative power of AI and the need for greater awareness and critical thinking in the face of rapidly changing technology. The current status of AI-generated content remains a topic of ongoing debate and discussion. As researchers and experts continue to explore the potential benefits and drawbacks of AI-generated content, it is clear that the conversation is far from over. The Merriam-Webster announcement serves as a reminder that the impact of AI on our lives is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires ongoing attention and consideration.