Oxford Declares ‘Rage Bait’ as 2025 Word of the Year

Oxford Names ‘Rage Bait’ as 2025 Word of the Year

Oxford University Press has chosen “rage bait” as its 2025 Word of the Year , spotlighting how digital platforms increasingly thrive on content engineered to provoke anger and fuel online engagement. The term reflects a broader cultural shift in how users interact with information in a hyperconnected world.

What ‘Rage Bait’ Really Means

“Rage bait” refers to online posts deliberately crafted to trigger outrage , encouraging people to react emotionally and impulsively. These posts may be controversial, misleading or intentionally abrasive. Linguists note that such content performs exceptionally well on algorithm-driven platforms, where engagement—positive or negative—boosts visibility.

Why Oxford Chose the Term

Lexicographers observed a sharp rise in discussions about digital toxicity , algorithmic amplification, and emotional manipulation online. Social media feeds often reward the most provocative content, creating a cycle where creators intentionally design posts to spark anger. Oxford’s choice signals rising public concern about misinformation, polarisation and the psychology of digital attention.

Other Words on the 2025 Shortlist

Two additional expressions made the shortlist alongside “rage bait”:

• Aura farming – the strategic crafting of a mysterious or aesthetically curated personal image to enhance social appeal.

• Biohack – the practice of applying unconventional methods to boost physical or mental performance, from micro-dosing to wearable tech.
  These shortlisted terms reflect evolving ideas around identity, optimisation and online perception.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Oxford University Press has announced a Word of the Year annually since 2004 .

• Past winners include “podcast” (2005) , “emoji” (2015) and “goblin mode” (2022) .

• The Word of the Year recognises expressions that capture major cultural or linguistic trends .

• The 2025 shortlist included “aura farming” and “biohack” .