AI named Collins Dictionary's word of the year

Collins Dictionary has declared "AI" as its word of the year, with the definition being "the abbreviation for artificial intelligence: the simulation of human mental abilities using computer programs." The UK-based dictionary publisher stated that AI, deemed as the forthcoming groundbreaking technological revolution, has experienced rapid advancement and generated significant discussions throughout 2023.

According to Collins, people were initially fascinated by the capabilities of AI in mimicking human speech. However, this also sparked anxiety. The statement adds that if computers became experts in language, it raised questions about what would come next. This led to a surge in debates, scrutiny, and predictions, ultimately justifying Collins' choice of "AI" as the Word of the Year for 2023.

The United Kingdom witnessed the commencement of the inaugural Global AI Summit on AI Safety on Wednesday. This significant event is being held at Bletchley Park, the historic site that served as the headquarters for the Allied Forces codebreaking program during World War II. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has taken the role of the event's host, while eminent speakers, including US Vice President Kamala Harris, will contribute to the summit.

At the headquarters of the Associated Press in New York, an Oxford English Dictionary was displayed on August 29, 2010. Oxford Dictionaries announced on Monday, December 5, 2022, that "goblin mode" has been chosen as its word of the year through an online vote. The term is defined as behavior that is unabashedly self-indulgent, idle, untidy, or avaricious, often in defiance of societal norms or expectations.

The top words of 2022 were peculiar and depressing, which makes perfect sense. Other contenders for Collins' word of the year included "de-influencing," which refers to when a social media influencer utilizes their popularity to caution followers against specific commercial products or lifestyle choices. Another entry was "nepo baby," used to describe a person whose career has been propelled forward due to their famous parents. Also on the shortlist were "canon event," defined as an experience that plays an essential role in shaping an individual's character or identity, and "ultra-processed foods," which are prepared using intricate industrial methods and typically lack nutritional value.

Collins also highlights the weight-loss medication known as "semaglutide" or "Ozempic," which has gained attention for its appetite-suppressing effects. Another term mentioned is "greedflation," which describes the alleged practice of businesses increasing prices excessively to maximize profits during times of high inflation in the UK.

Last year, "permacrisis" was chosen as the dictionary's word of the year, defining it as an extended period of instability and insecurity. This followed the selection of "NFT" in 2021, an abbreviation for "non-fungible token," referring to a unique digital certificate registered in a blockchain that confirms ownership of assets like artwork or collectibles.