Collins Dictionary has selected “vibe coding” as its Word of the Year for 2025, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of language influenced by technology. This term, which refers to the process of transforming natural language into computer code using artificial intelligence, reflects a growing trend in software development. The choice highlights the increasing relevance of AI in everyday life and its impact on how we communicate.
Defining ‘Vibe Coding’
The term “vibe coding” was coined by Andrej Karpathy, the former director of AI at Tesla and a founding engineer at OpenAI. It describes a scenario in which AI enables users to create applications with minimal technical knowledge, allowing them to “forget that the code even exists.” This concept has gained traction since its first recorded use in February 2025, according to lexicographers at Collins who monitor a vast database of over 24 billion words from diverse media sources.
Collins Dictionary’s lexicographers noted a surge in the term’s usage, prompting its selection for the annual accolade. The dictionary aims to reflect the dynamic nature of language as it adapts to cultural and technological changes.
Other Notable Words of 2025
In addition to vibe coding, several other words have emerged as significant in the lexicon of 2025. “Biohacking,” which refers to the practice of modifying bodily functions to enhance health and longevity, also made the list. Meanwhile, “clanker,” a term popularized by the animated series Star Wars: The Clone Wars, denotes a derogatory label for computers or AI, often expressing frustration with technology.
Another term gaining popularity this year is “glaze,” which describes excessive or undeserved praise. “Aura farming” has also captured attention, referring to the deliberate cultivation of a charismatic persona, particularly among gamers. This term gained widespread recognition following the viral “boat kid” video that inspired a dance trend embraced by celebrities, including American football player Travis Kelce.
The list also features “broligarchy,” a nickname for influential tech leaders who gained notoriety during Donald Trump‘s inauguration. Additionally, the acronym “Henry,” signifying “high earner, not rich yet,” and terms like “coolcation,” describing holidays in cooler climates, and “taskmasking,” which involves creating a false impression of productivity, were included. The concept of “micro-retirement,” which entails taking breaks between jobs to pursue personal interests, rounds out the noteworthy terms.
According to Alex Beecroft, the managing director of Collins, the selection of “vibe coding” as the Word of the Year encapsulates the intersection of language and technology. He stated, “It signals a major shift in software development, where AI is making coding more accessible. The seamless integration of human creativity and machine intelligence demonstrates how natural language is fundamentally changing our interaction with computers.”
The recognition of vibe coding and these other terms underscores the rapid evolution of language, reflecting societal changes and technological advancements that shape our communication today. As we move forward, the influence of AI in various fields will likely continue to redefine the way we express ourselves.
