The English language is an ever-evolving entity, and in a reflection of this constant change, the Cambridge Dictionary has recently added over 6,000 new words. This substantial update highlights the growing influence of internet and social media culture on mainstream vocabulary, as well as shifts in work and environmental discourse. The lexicographers at the Cambridge Dictionary only add words they believe have "staying power" and will not simply be a short-lived fad.

The Rise of Internet Slang 

A significant portion of the new additions are terms that have gained traction on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. The inclusion of these words underscores how quickly digital trends can seep into everyday language.

Skibidi: Perhaps one of the most surprising additions, this gibberish term originated from a viral YouTube animated series called Skibidi Toilet. It has multiple meanings, including "cool" or "bad," but is often used with no real meaning at all, as a joke.

Delulu: An abbreviation of delusional, this word is defined as "believing things that are not real or true, usually because you choose to." It's used in a post-truth context where personal beliefs are prioritized over reality.

Lewk: Popularized by the reality show RuPaul's Drag Race, this is a stylized spelling of the word "look," used to describe a striking, impressive, or unusual outfit.

Tradwife: A contraction of "traditional wife," this term refers to a woman who embraces traditional gender roles by staying at home to cook, clean, and care for her family, a lifestyle often documented on social media.

Broligarchy: A blend of "bro" and "oligarchy," this word describes a small group of rich and powerful men, often in the technology industry, who have or want political influence.

Modern Life and Other Additions 

The new entries aren't just confined to internet slang. They also reflect changes in modern society, from the workplace to the environment.

Mouse jiggler: A device or piece of software used to simulate mouse movement, making it appear that a person is working when they are not. This word's addition speaks directly to the increase in remote work since the pandemic.

Forever chemical: This term refers to harmful, man-made substances that persist in the environment for a long time, highlighting growing concerns about climate change and environmental pollution.

The inclusion of such a diverse range of words demonstrates the dynamic and responsive nature of language. As technology and social norms continue to evolve, so too does our vocabulary, with the Cambridge Dictionary acting as a record of these linguistic shifts.

Nigerian or African Words in  Cambridge Dictionary 

While a number of Nigerian and African words have been added to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), there are no recent reports of a large-scale addition of such words to the Cambridge Dictionary. The Cambridge Dictionary's latest major update has focused more on words from global internet culture, such as "skibidi" and "delulu," as well as terms related to modern work and environmental issues.

It's a common misconception that dictionaries update in unison; in reality, each dictionary has its own unique process and criteria for adding new words. While the Cambridge Dictionary has not recently made a splash with African additions, the OED has.

Nigerian Words in the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) 

The OED, a different and equally influential authority on the English language, has recently added a significant number of Nigerian words, primarily from Nigerian Pidgin English. This reflects the widespread use and cultural importance of these terms. Some of the notable additions include:

Adire: A type of fabric with a unique dyed pattern, mainly produced in southwestern Nigeria. It's a key part of Yoruba culture.

Agbero: A person who works as a tout, typically at bus stops or car parks, collecting money from drivers and passengers.

Japa: A word that has gained significant popularity, meaning the emigration of Nigerians to other countries in search of better education, employment, or economic opportunities.

 Naija: A colloquial term for Nigeria or anything related to Nigeria and Nigerians.

Suya: A popular spicy skewered meat, a delicacy across Nigeria.

Abi: A Nigerian Pidgin word used at the end of a statement to prompt agreement or confirmation, similar to "isn't it?" or "right?".