Australia’s Macquarie Dictionary has selected “enshittification” as the Word of the Year for 2024, a term that encapsulates a prevailing sentiment regarding the perceived decline in the quality of online products and services. This selection reflects a growing concern among users who feel that the digital landscape is increasingly deteriorating.
In announcing the choice on its website, Macquarie Dictionary elaborated on the definition of “enshittification,” describing it as the gradual decline of a service or product resulting from diminished quality, particularly within online platforms due to profit-driven motives. This term resonated with the public, capturing a widespread feeling of dissatisfaction with various aspects of contemporary life, particularly as they relate to digital interactions.
The nomination process also revealed a competitive shortlist that included terms such as “looksmaxxing,” “overtourism,” and “sigma,” showcasing the evolving nature of language and its reflection of societal trends. In addition, the committee recognized notable mentions such as “the right to disconnect,” which pertains to laws allowing employees to refrain from responding to work-related communications outside of official hours, and “rawdogging,” which refers to the practice of taking long-haul flights without electronic distractions.
The term “enshittification” was coined by Canadian-British author Cory Doctorow in a 2022 essay highlighting the perceived decline of major digital platforms like Facebook and Twitter. In his follow-up discussions, Doctorow elaborated on the lifecycle of digital platforms, describing a pattern where they initially cater to users, then prioritize business customers at the expense of user experience, ultimately compromising the interests of both parties.
Macquarie’s choice follows a tradition among dictionaries to reflect linguistic trends influenced by contemporary issues. Last year, the dictionary honored “cozzie livs,” a term that cleverly plays on “cost of living.” Meanwhile, the UK’s Oxford Dictionary is currently in the process of public voting for its own Word of the Year, featuring options like “brain rot” and “dynamic pricing.”
As society continues to grapple with the complexities of our digital interactions, the selection of “enshittification” serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced within modern communication environments.
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