Collins dictionary names ‘mogging’ word of the year 2026
Collins’s dictionary has chosen the slang term “mogging” as its word of the year for 2026, the Guardian reported.
Collins’s dictionary has chosen the slang term “mogging” as its word of the year for 2026, the Guardian reported. The word, which comes from bodybuilding circles, means to outperform or outshine someone, making them appear inferior. In announcing the winner, Collins copywriter Rachel Quin said the term "describes making someone or something look inferior in terms of appearance, confidence or status."
The selection came after a shortlist that included “Friendslop,” a gamer‑coined label for low‑budget multiplayer indie games, “Fricy,” a blend of “fruity” and “spicy” used for new food flavours, “Bixie,” a hybrid bob‑pixie haircut popularised by several celebrities, and “P(doom),” a mathematical shorthand for the perceived risk that artificial intelligence could cause human civilisation’s collapse.
Why it matters
The choice highlights how niche online slang can move into mainstream dictionaries, reflecting shifting cultural influences.
Key details
- Location
- United Kingdom · Europe
- Reported by
- The Guardian
- First reported
- Key names
- Collins English, Collins, AI, Mogging
- Section
- World
Sources
This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:
Read the full story at The GuardianSpotted an error? Request a correction · How this summary was produced
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