Cambridge Dictionary has selected “parasocial” as its Word of the Year for 2025, a choice influenced significantly by the recent engagement of celebrities Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. The dictionary reported a notable increase in searches for the term following the couple’s announcement on August 26, 2025, when they revealed their engagement through a widely shared post on social media.
The term “parasocial” describes a one-sided emotional relationship that individuals develop with public figures, celebrities, or fictional characters. This concept, originally coined in the 1950s, has gained traction in everyday language, especially in the context of social media where fans express their feelings towards celebrities.
According to Cambridge Dictionary, the term’s surge in popularity is directly linked to the extensive media coverage surrounding Swift and Kelce’s engagement. The dictionary noted that fan reactions included statements like, “I’m not being parasocial about it,” reflecting a growing awareness and discussion of the term among the public.
Impact of Celebrity Culture on Language
Colin McIntosh, Chief Editor of Cambridge Dictionary, highlighted the significant rise in searches for “parasocial” throughout the year. He stated, “Parasocial stood out in 2025 for several reasons. Public interest in the term increased massively this year, as we can see from our data: the number of searches for it in the Cambridge Dictionary as well as on Google spiked on several occasions.”
McIntosh pointed out the term’s evolution from an academic term to a phrase commonly used in social media discussions. He noted, “It’s interesting from a language point of view because it has made the transition from an academic term to one used by ordinary people in their social media posts. And it also captures the zeitgeist of 2025, as the public’s fascination with celebrities and their lifestyles continues to reach new heights.”
The engagement announcement post from Swift and Kelce quickly garnered over 37 million likes, captivating audiences worldwide. The caption stated, “Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married,” further endearing the couple to their fans.
Social Media’s Role in Language Evolution
The rise of social media has played a crucial role in transforming how people interact with and perceive celebrities. With platforms like Instagram and Twitter, fans are not only consuming content but are also actively engaging with it, leading to terms like “parasocial” becoming part of everyday conversation.
The phenomenon exemplifies how celebrity culture can influence language development and public discourse. As fans share their thoughts and feelings online, they often reflect on the emotional connections they feel towards public figures, making “parasocial” a fitting choice for this year’s recognition.
In conclusion, the selection of “parasocial” as the Word of the Year by Cambridge Dictionary underscores the intersection of language and popular culture. With the engagement of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce serving as a catalyst, the term has resonated with many, illustrating the evolving landscape of communication in the digital age.
