The Macquarie Dictionary has declared “AI slop” as its word of the year for 2025.
This expression is used to describe subpar content produced by generative AI, which frequently includes mistakes.
Every year, the Macquarie Dictionary assembles a dedicated committee to evaluate new words and definitions that have been added to its collection throughout the year.
This year’s committee included the Macquarie Dictionary editorial team, radio presenter and author David Astle, and language research expert Tiger Webb.
The committee remarked, “In 2025, we have come to recognize what we mean by ‘slop’—AI-generated content that lacks meaningful substance or utility.”
They further questioned, “Will those who consume and replicate this content soon be known as ‘AI sloppers’?”
The committee’s honourable mentions included “clanker”, a usually derogatory term used to describe an AI-driven robot that completes tasks normally performed by a human.
Medical misogyny was also nominated, which is the entrenched prejudice against females in the context of medical treatment and knowledge, especially in the area of reproductive health.
The word of the year often reflects societal change throughout the year.
