Taylor Swift inspires Cambridge Dictionary’s ‘Word of the Year’
(NewsNation) — Taylor Swift can add another accomplishment to what has been a very memorable 2025 — inspiration for Cambridge Dictionary’s Word of the Year.
The word “parasocial” was slightly inspired by Swift’s lyrics and her engagement to Travis Kelce this summer.
“Millions of fans related to Taylor Swift’s confessional lyrics about dating, heartbreak, and desire, leading to what psychologists describe as 'parasocial' bonds with stars, Cambridge University Press & Assessment said in a news release.
“When Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce announced their engagement, many fans felt a deep connection to the singer and American footballer, even though most had never met them.”
Colin McIntosh, Cambridge Dictionary’s chief editor, added, “Parasocial captures the 2025 zeitgeist. It’s a great example of how language changes. What was once a specialist academic term has become mainstream.”
The term “parasocial” dates back almost 70 years, when sociologists noticed that television viewers engaged in “para-social” relationships with on-screen personalities.