“Collins Names ‘Vibe Coding’ as 2025 Word of the Year”

Collins Dictionary has selected “vibe coding” as its Word of the Year for 2025, reflecting a significant shift in how technology and language interact. This innovative method allows users to translate natural language into computer code using artificial intelligence. The term has gained traction since February 2025, as Collins lexicographers noted a marked increase in its usage across various media and social platforms.

The phrase was coined by Andrej Karpathy, the former director of AI at Tesla and a founding engineer at OpenAI. Karpathy highlighted how AI empowers individuals to create applications without needing to understand the intricacies of coding. In this context, “vibe coding” exemplifies the evolving landscape of software development, making it more accessible to a broader audience.

Other Notable Terms of 2025

In addition to “vibe coding,” Collins’ list features other terms that have surged in popularity. “Biohacking” refers to the practice of modifying one’s natural bodily processes to improve health and longevity. The term reflects a growing interest in personal health optimization.

Another term, “clanker,” has emerged as a pejorative descriptor for computers, robots, or AI systems, gaining attention through its use in popular media, particularly in Star Wars: The Clone Wars. This word illustrates public sentiment towards technology, often highlighting frustrations with AI chatbots and platforms.

Additionally, the term “glaze” has come to represent excessive or undeserved praise, while “aura farming” describes the intentional cultivation of a charismatic persona. The latter term gained traction after the viral “boat kid” video, which sparked a dance trend embraced by celebrities, including Travis Kelce, an American football player.

The term “broligarchy” was also noted, a label applied to the informal group of influential technology executives who attended the inauguration of Donald Trump. This term reflects societal perceptions of power dynamics within the tech industry.

Collins also recognized the rise of “HENRY,” an acronym standing for “high earner, not rich yet,” and “coolcation,” which refers to vacations in cooler climates. Another addition, “taskmasking,” describes the act of creating a false impression of productivity in the workplace. Lastly, “micro-retirement” highlights a trend where individuals take breaks between jobs to pursue personal interests.

The Significance of Evolving Language

Alex Beecroft, managing director of Collins, emphasized the importance of selecting “vibe coding” as the Word of the Year, stating, “The selection of vibe coding as Collins’ Word of the Year perfectly captures how language is evolving alongside technology.” He noted that this term signals a major transformation in software development, where AI is bridging the gap between human creativity and machine intelligence.

Beecroft’s comments underscore the broader implications of language evolution in the digital age. As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries, the integration of natural language processing into coding practices is likely to expand, further influencing how individuals and businesses interact with technology.

The recognition of “vibe coding” alongside other emerging terms illustrates how rapidly our language adapts to reflect technological advancements and societal changes. Collins Dictionary’s annual selection serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of language in response to the world around us.