LONDON, Nov 3: Collins Dictionary has selected “mogging”, a slang expression meaning to outshine or overshadow someone, as its Word of the Year for 2026, highlighting the growing influence of younger generations on modern English.
According to the dictionary’s experts, the term is widely used by young people in a humorous and ironic context, particularly when someone stands out or outperforms another person. Its usage increased by 210 per cent during 2026, reflecting its growing popularity beyond social media and online conversations.
The annual selection also features several other emerging expressions that capture changing social trends, technological developments and contemporary lifestyles.
Among them is “firewaves”, referring to a series of urban wildfires occurring within a short period. Another notable addition is “P(doom)”, a term used to estimate the likelihood of artificial intelligence leading to the collapse of human civilisation.
Alex Beecroft, managing director of Collins, said the selection of “mogging” demonstrates how different generations influence and reshape language.
He described the expression as an example of Gen Z and Gen Alpha adopting existing words and transforming them into humorous slang that reflects their cultural identity.
The dictionary’s 2026 list also includes “carspreading”, describing the trend of automobile manufacturers producing increasingly longer, wider and heavier vehicles.
Another addition, “fricy”, refers to fashionable food and beverages that combine fruity and spicy flavours.
The list further features “ghost jobs”, a term for vacancies advertised by companies that have no genuine intention of hiring candidates. “Friendslop” has also been included, describing low-budget, independently developed video games designed to be played among friends.
Collins Dictionary compiles its annual list by tracking changes in language through its 27-billion-word database. The collection draws on various sources, including social media, to identify emerging expressions and changing patterns of usage.
The annual selection highlights how internet culture, technological advancements and evolving social behaviour continue to introduce new vocabulary into everyday English.