The Cambridge Dictionary has officially selected “manifest” as its Word of the Year (WOTY) for 2024. The announcement, made on Wednesday, November 20, highlights the evolving use of the word in contemporary culture.
Traditionally meaning “easily noticed” or “to show something clearly,” the term has taken on a new dimension in recent years. In its modern context, “manifest” refers to the practice of visualizing and affirming goals with the belief that these actions increase the likelihood of achieving them. This concept has gained traction in self-help circles and social media, particularly among influencers promoting the power of manifestation.
According to Cambridge Dictionary, “manifest” was searched nearly 130,000 times this year, reflecting its growing relevance. Its popularity soared not only online but also in mainstream conversations. High-profile figures such as Olympic gymnast Simone Biles and singer Dua Lipa credited manifestation for their recent successes, further driving interest in the term.
Cambridge Dictionary selects its WOTY based on search data, cultural trends, and the evolving use of language. Publishing manager Wendalyn Nichols explained that “manifest” stood out due to its significant increase in lookups and its broadened use across media.
Shortlisted words for 2024 included “brat,” “ecotarian,” and “resilience.” Last year’s WOTY, “hallucinate,” highlighted the rise of artificial intelligence and the spread of misinformation.
