In a world where the quest for truth and authenticity takes center stage, it’s no surprise that Merriam-Webster’s word of the year for 2023 is “authentic.” This choice comes amid a surge in searches for the word’s definition, driven by discussions on AI, celebrity culture, identity, and the impact of social media.
The Significance of “Authentic” in Current Affairs
Authenticity, with its various meanings such as “not false or imitation” and “true to one’s own personality, spirit, or character,” has become a focal point in conversations about truth and identity. Merriam-Webster notes a substantial increase in searches for the term, emphasizing its desirability and frequent association with expressions of identity, including cuisine.
Celebrities and Authenticity
Celebrities like Lainey Wilson, Sam Smith, Taylor Swift, and even Elon Musk have played a role in popularizing the term. Musk, known for advocating authenticity, sparked a conversation when, as the head of Twitter (now X), he removed the blue check sign of authenticity, making it available at a price.
Deepfake and the Blurring of Reality
In a world where deepfakes challenge the boundaries between reality and manipulation, the related term “deepfake” also stood out in searches. Merriam-Webster defines it as convincingly altered images or recordings that misrepresent someone, noting a spike in searches following Musk’s legal testimony arguments.
Words Making Waves in 2023
Apart from “authentic,” other words drawing attention in 2023 include coronation, dystopian, indict, and doppelgänger. Additionally, the introduction of internet-driven slang, such as “rizz,” gained popularity and became a top lookup term.