Key Points
- “Slop” defined as low‑quality AI‑generated digital content.
- Merriam-Webster selects the term as the 2025 word of the year.
- YouTube, Wikipedia, Spotify and Pinterest work to limit AI slop.
- Meta and OpenAI launch apps featuring AI‑generated video streams.
- Disney partners with Sora to bring AI videos to its platform and takes an equity stake in OpenAI.
- Other notable 2025 terms include “touch grass,” “tariff,” “performative” and “gerrymander.”
Definition and Cultural Context
Merriam-Webster announced that the word “slop” will represent 2025. The dictionary defines slop as “digital content of low quality that is produced usually in quantity by means of artificial intelligence.” The term reflects a growing awareness of AI‑generated material that prioritizes volume over quality.
Industry Response
Major online destinations have taken varied approaches to the influx of AI slop. Platforms such as YouTube, Wikipedia, Spotify and Pinterest have implemented measures aimed at limiting low‑quality AI content. In contrast, other technology firms are leveraging the trend. Meta and OpenAI have launched applications that showcase streams of AI‑generated videos for users to scroll through and share.
Entertainment Sector Involvement
Disney entered the AI space by striking a deal to bring videos generated by Sora—a tool linked to OpenAI—to its streaming service, while also acquiring a substantial equity stake in OpenAI’s parent company.
Lexical Landscape
Beyond “slop,” Merriam-Webster highlighted additional words and phrases that marked the year, including “touch grass,” “tariff,” “performative” and “gerrymander.” The dictionary likens slop to substances like slime, sludge and muck, suggesting a tactile aversion that mirrors public sentiment toward low‑quality AI output.
Source: theverge.com