Collins English Dictionary has revealed that “mogging” is the word of the year for 2026, reflecting the influence of Generations Z and Alpha on contemporary language. The announcement was made on Tuesday, 3 November, marking the term’s significant rise in usage throughout the year.
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Defined as “to outperform or outshine someone or something,” “mogging” has seen a remarkable 210% increase in its use this year alone. This surge has led to the term becoming ingrained in both online discourse and everyday conversation among younger demographics. The dictionary describes the usage of “mogging” as playful and ironic, often employed when one individual manages to eclipse another in various contexts.
The origins of “mogging” can be traced back about a decade to the phrase AMOG, which stands for “Alpha Male of the Group.” Initially, it described the most physically dominant figure in bodybuilding circles. Over time, it evolved from a noun into a verb, particularly within the “manosphere,” and has now gained broader acceptance across various age groups.
Collins English Dictionary noted that the term has transcended its original domain, with teenagers using it in diverse scenarios. “Teenagers mog elite athletes, a new video game mogs an old favourite, and your friend’s sourdough mogs the loaf you spent all weekend proving,” they stated in their announcement. This adaptability showcases the term’s transformation into a versatile piece of slang that resonates with younger audiences.
Alex Beecroft, the managing director of Collins, commented on the significance of choosing “mogging” as the word of the year. He highlighted how each generation shapes language, and the emergence of this term exemplifies how Gen Z and Gen Alpha have injected humour into their communication, effectively “mogging” older generations in the process.
The selection was not without competition, as several other terms were shortlisted. Among these was “carspreading,” a concept related to the automotive industry where vehicles, especially SUVs, have increased in size with each new model. This term has gained traction amid a notable rise in SUV sales, which now comprise over half of all cars sold in the UK.
Another term included in the shortlist is “firewave,” which addresses the alarming frequency of simultaneous wildfires, often in urban areas, attributed to the impacts of climate change. These fires frequently occur due to extended periods of extreme heat, highlighting a pressing environmental concern.
Additional shortlisted words encompassed “ghost job,” referring to job postings made by employers who have no intention of hiring, further illustrating the evolving job market dynamics. Also noted was “hydration break,” a phrase that gained recognition during the 2026 World Cup, allowing participants to take necessary pauses during matches to stay hydrated.
Lastly, “friendslop” was considered, representing a gaming culture term that describes low-budget games designed primarily for casual enjoyment among friends, rather than prioritising high production values.
Overall, “mogging” has emerged as emblematic of the linguistic creativity that characterizes younger generations, reflecting their attitudes and cultural touchstones while marking its place in the evolving landscape of English vocabulary.
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