'Brain rot' named Oxford Word of the Year 2024

Their approach-

We analyse data and trends to identify new and emerging words and expressions, which our lexicographers think of as a ‘single unit’, and examine the shifts in how more established language is being used. The team also consider suggestions from our colleagues and the public, and look back at the world’s most influential moments of the year to inform their shortlist—culminating in a word or expression of cultural significance.

Expressions get to be considered words. For example, in 2011, it was "Squeezed middle", 2016 had "post-truth", 2019 was, "Climate emergency"... 2022 had the first public vote, and chose, "Goblin mode", for better or worse.