Merriam-Webster added more than 300 words to its dictionary, like “adorkable”, “shrinkflation” and “yeet”.
As the English language grows and changes, new words and definitions are continually added. Merriam-Webster says when many people use a word in the same way, over a long enough period of time, that word becomes eligible for inclusion.
The rise of Gen Z has given way to many new, unfamiliar terms, including “yeet”, “sus” and “cringe”.
A few Tulsans recognized “cringe” as something embarrassing or awkward.
“Kind of just like oh that gave me the ick, I don’t like it, it wasn’t right,” said Caitlin Key.
“Like gross, yucky, that is so cringey, makes you uncomfortable,” said Jeremy and Jenna Brennan.
“Sus” is a new term added, short for “suspicious or “suspect”. “Yeet” can be used to express enthusiasm, or as a verb meaning to throw something.
“Adorkable” is an adjective, describing someone who’s socially awkward or quirky in a way that’s endearing.
“Probably just combining adorable and dork and making dork sound like it’s cute,” said Caitlin. “I’m not big on that one, if I’m being honest.”
With inflation still on the minds of many, “shrinkflation” was added, meaning reducing a product’s amount while continuing to offer it at the same price.
A “side hustle” is work performed for supplementary income. “That’s like gig working and freelancing working,” said Karen Mulkey.
“Like a side job,” said Jeremy and Jenna. “A way to make some more money, on the side, at night, on weekends.”
“Galentine’s Day”, made popular by the TV show “Parks and Recreation”, made its way into the dictionary as a holiday observed on Feb. 13 to celebrate friendships especially among women.
“I’m a Leslie Knope fan, Parks and Recreation,” said Caitlin. “Day before Valentine’s Day is for the gals.”
“To be honest with you, that is really cool because we need a day like that. That is awesome,” said Patience Arnold Ouk.
You can check the full list of added words here.
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