Mon Dec 15 18:20:00 UTC 2025: Dictionary.com’s ‘6-7’ Word of the Year Sparks Debate Among Linguists

NEW YORK, NY – Dictionary.com’s controversial selection of “6-7” as its 2025 Word of the Year has ignited a debate among linguists, with some praising the choice as a reflection of language’s evolving nature and others criticizing it as a sign of decline.

The online dictionary described the term as “meaningless, ubiquitous, and nonsensical,” but linguists like Ai Taniguchi of the University of Toronto Mississauga argue that its very lack of literal meaning is the point. “Language is not just about these truth conditional meanings…but finding a sense of who you are and expressing that,” she explained. Taniguchi sees “6-7” as a way for young people to connect and signal in-group status, similar to the use of “420” in previous generations.

Nicole Rosen, head of the University of Manitoba’s linguistics department, echoed this sentiment, arguing that adding new terms, even seemingly nonsensical ones, doesn’t erode the language. She contrasted this view with a more “prescriptivist” approach that rigidly defines how language should be used.

Kelly Elizabeth Wright, lead editor of the “Among the New Words” section of American Speech, highlighted the term’s broad appeal across different communities. However, she also predicted that its widespread adoption might lead to its eventual decline in popularity among young people seeking a more exclusive form of expression.

Ben Zimmer, chair of the American Dialect Society’s New Words Committee, emphasized the value of the Word of the Year exercise in understanding how different cultures communicate at different times. He noted that past nominations, such as “tariff-fied,” reflected significant cultural and political shifts. Zimmer anticipates that words related to artificial intelligence will dominate future nominations.

While the choice of “6-7” has sparked criticism, linguists generally agree that it provides a valuable opportunity to discuss the dynamic and ever-changing nature of language and its role in shaping identity and culture. The conversation surrounding it is encouraging to Taniguchi as it highlights the diversity of perspectives. She believes it will allow for an opportunity to channel curiosity into conversations about understanding other cultures, languages and people.

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