Cambridge Dictionary has announced ‘parasocial’ as its Word of the Year for 2025, recognizing the term that describes one-sided relationships people form with celebrities, influencers, or even artificial intelligence. This selection reflects the growing influence of social media and digital interactions on modern language and culture.
The Cambridge Dictionary revealed “parasocial” as its 2025 Word of the Year, defining it as a relationship felt by an individual towards a famous person or entity they have never met. This announcement was made on November 18, 2025, with the term gaining prominence due to its relevance in contemporary social dynamics. Lexicographers noted a significant increase in searches and usage of the word over the past year, particularly in contexts involving celebrity culture and online interactions.
The concept of parasocial relationships dates back to 1956, when American sociologists Donald Horton and Richard Wohl first coined the term to describe how television viewers formed connections with on-screen personalities. Originally an academic term, it has since evolved and entered mainstream vocabulary, largely driven by the rise of social media platforms where users engage deeply with influencers and content creators. This shift from niche to common usage underscores how language adapts to technological and societal changes.
Recent high-profile events have exemplified parasocial dynamics, such as the engagement announcement between singer Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce, which sparked intense fan reactions and discussions. Similarly, British singer Lily Allen’s album “West End Girl,” which details a breakup, fueled parasocial interest in her personal life. Additionally, the emergence of AI chatbots like ChatGPT has led some users to develop parasocial bonds, treating these technologies as confidants or friends, highlighting the term’s applicability beyond human interactions.
Colin McIntosh, a chief editor at Cambridge Dictionary, emphasized that “parasocial” captures the 2025 zeitgeist, illustrating how language evolves with culture. He noted that millions of people are engaged in such relationships, and the word’s transition from academic circles to everyday use reflects broader societal trends. Simone Schnall, a professor of experimental social psychology at the University of Cambridge, described the choice as “inspired,” pointing out that parasocial relationships can be unhealthy, fostering one-sided loyalty and a false sense of intimacy.
The dictionary’s selection process involves monitoring word usage to ensure they stand the test of time, and “parasocial” met this criterion due to its widespread adoption. Other words that gained attention this year include “slop,” referring to low-quality AI-generated content, and “memeify,” meaning to turn something into a meme. New entries like “delulu,” “skibidi,” and “tradwife” were also added, showcasing the dynamic nature of English vocabulary influenced by internet culture.
This recognition of “parasocial” not only validates its linguistic importance but also raises awareness about the psychological impacts of modern media consumption. As digital interactions continue to blur the lines between public and private lives, understanding parasocial phenomena becomes crucial for addressing issues like online obsession and mental health. The word’s ascent highlights how technology reshapes human connections, prompting further research and discussion in fields like psychology and sociology.
Looking ahead, the inclusion of “parasocial” in the Cambridge Dictionary is expected to cement its place in the lexicon, encouraging more nuanced conversations about relationships in the digital age. As AI and social media evolve, the term may see even broader applications, potentially influencing how society navigates the complexities of virtual interactions. This announcement serves as a reminder of language’s power to mirror and mold cultural realities.
