Merriam-Webster Names “Polarization” as 2024 Word of the Year, Reflecting Political and Cultural Divides; Other Key Words Such as “Totality,” “Demure,” and “Pander” Gain Prominence
Merriam-Webster Names “Polarization” as 2024 Word of the Year, Reflecting Political and Cultural Divides; Other Key Words Such as “Totality,” “Demure,” and “Pander” Gain Prominence
In an era defined by heightened political divisions, social tensions, and the polarizing effects of social media, Merriam-Webster has selected “polarization” as its 2024 Word of the Year. The decision underscores how the term has shaped discourse, particularly as the United States approaches a pivotal presidential election. Merriam-Webster, the prestigious American dictionary publisher, defines “polarization” as “a division into two sharply distinct opposites; especially, a state in which the opinions, beliefs, or interests of a group or society no longer range along a continuum but become concentrated at opposite extremes.”
The choice of “polarization” highlights not only the deepening rifts in American politics but also its broader societal implications. As discussions about the presidential election and divisive issues take center stage, the term has been frequently used in news coverage, academic papers, and cultural analyses. Its growing prominence marks a significant shift in how society is grappling with profound ideological and cultural divides.
This article will explore the rise of “polarization,” its impact on the 2024 election cycle, the societal implications of divided views, and how other words selected by Merriam-Webster this year reflect shifting cultural trends.
The Rise of Polarization: A Political and Cultural Divide
Polarization has become a defining feature of political life in the United States over the past few decades. The nation’s political landscape is increasingly characterized by ideological extremism, with Democrats and Republicans occupying more divergent and ideologically rigid positions than in the past. Scholars argue that this growing divide is fueled by several factors, including the rise of social media, gerrymandering, the echo chambers of cable news, and an erosion of traditional democratic norms.
According to Merriam-Webster, the word “polarization” saw a significant spike in searches throughout 2023, particularly in the context of political discourse surrounding the presidential election. Media outlets, commentators, and political analysts repeatedly used the term to describe the sharp divisions between political parties, especially as the Republican and Democratic candidates for president moved further to the extremes of their respective ideologies.
During the primaries and debates in 2024, the concept of polarization has been at the forefront of discussions about the future of American democracy. Political polarization, however, is not only a phenomenon occurring in the halls of government or within the partisan divide. It has seeped into cultural, social, and economic spheres, affecting workplaces, social media platforms, and even friendships. The impact of this increased polarization has raised concerns about the ability of society to come together, compromise, and function cohesively.
Polarization in Politics: A Tense Election Year
The 2024 U.S. presidential election is poised to be one of the most polarized in modern history. With the candidacies of incumbent President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, two of the most polarizing figures in American politics, the divide between the political left and right is expected to deepen even further. Campaign strategies are already leaning heavily into tactics that appeal to each side’s extreme base, further exacerbating the ideological divide.
In recent months, the rhetoric from both major political parties has become more extreme, and issues that once had a middle ground—such as immigration, healthcare, and climate change—are now seen as “either/or” topics. Politicians on both sides use the language of “us vs. them,” tapping into the anxieties of their constituencies by presenting the opposition as a threat to the country’s very existence.
Polls have shown a growing sense of disillusionment with the political process among moderate voters, who often find themselves alienated by the combative rhetoric and the unwillingness of politicians to engage in cross-party cooperation. The term “polarization” has become a shorthand for describing not just the divisions within government but also the cultural and emotional rifts that now define public opinion.
The dramatic increase in polarization can also be seen in other aspects of the political environment, such as the increasing use of social media platforms to promote divisive narratives. Digital spaces like Twitter, Facebook, and more recently, TikTok, serve as breeding grounds for the amplification of extreme viewpoints, with algorithms feeding users content that aligns with their political ideologies, creating echo chambers that reinforce their preexisting beliefs.
Moreover, the political rise of movements like the “alt-right” and “woke” left further illustrates the widening chasm. These ideological factions often find themselves at odds with the more traditional elements of their respective parties, creating a friction that makes consensus even harder to achieve.
Cultural Polarization: Beyond Politics
While polarization is often viewed through the lens of political discourse, its effects extend far beyond the political arena. One of the more significant trends identified by Merriam-Webster in 2023 was the growing cultural divide in workplaces, schools, and even family structures. This was exemplified by Forbes’ coverage of “cultural polarization,” which explored the challenges facing companies and organizations that are trying to foster inclusivity and diversity in increasingly divided environments.
In workplaces, the tension between progressive and conservative ideologies has led to internal divisions, making it difficult for employees to engage in meaningful dialogue about controversial issues such as gender identity, race relations, and environmental policy. Companies are now facing a new challenge: how to navigate these deep cultural divides while maintaining a productive, respectful environment.
Moreover, as corporations become more politically vocal, often taking stances on issues like climate change, LGBTQ+ rights, and diversity, they risk alienating a portion of their consumer base who may hold differing opinions. This form of “corporate polarization” creates a dilemma for business leaders who must balance their values with the potential fallout from politically charged decisions.
Family dynamics have also been affected by polarization, particularly in the wake of the 2020 and 2022 elections. Family members with differing political views are finding it increasingly difficult to find common ground, leading to strained relationships and, in some cases, permanent rifts. Research from social psychologists suggests that the polarization of political discourse has led to an increased willingness to sever ties with friends and family members who hold opposing views.
The Influence of “Polarization” on Other Words in 2023
Alongside “polarization,” Merriam-Webster noted several other words that rose to prominence throughout 2023, offering a broader snapshot of societal shifts. These words reflect a mixture of cultural events, viral trends, and global phenomena that shaped the public discourse over the past year.
Totality: The Eclipse Phenomenon
In April 2023, the total solar eclipse, visible across 13 states in North America, brought the term “totality” into public consciousness. Merriam-Webster recorded a notable spike in searches for the word as millions of Americans flocked to the path of totality to witness the rare celestial event. The term itself, meaning the complete obscuration of the sun by the moon, captured the collective awe and fascination of the American public.
Demure: A TikTok Trend
Meanwhile, the word “demure” saw a resurgence on social media, particularly TikTok, as influencers promoted a new makeup line that embodied the concept of “very demure, very mindful.” The word, which traditionally means reserved or modest, became synonymous with a soft, understated approach to beauty, fashion, and self-presentation. This shift was part of a larger trend on TikTok to embrace a more natural, minimalistic aesthetic.
Fortnight: A British Term Gains Popularity
In a lighter note, pop culture also influenced the rise of words in 2023. Taylor Swift’s influence on social media helped introduce the term “fortnight,” which refers to a period of two weeks, to a wider American audience. Swift used the term in the context of her tours and schedules, making it a standout lookup trend for the year.
Pander: Political Strategy and the Media Landscape
The word “pander,” which means to cater to the desires or weaknesses of others, was notably prevalent in political discussions throughout 2023. The term was often used by news outlets and commentators to describe how political figures and organizations tailor their messages to specific constituencies, especially as elections approached. This strategy, though common in politics, has become a point of contention as some argue that pandering undermines genuine policy debates and perpetuates divisiveness.
Conclusion: The Lingering Impact of Polarization
As Merriam-Webster’s 2024 Word of the Year, “polarization” is not just a word; it encapsulates the deep and pervasive divisions that define the current moment in both the United States and many parts of the world. Whether it’s in politics, culture, or social relations, polarization has taken root in nearly every facet of life, presenting new challenges to governance, community cohesion, and dialogue.
As we head into 2024, the word will continue to resonate, reflecting the ideological schisms that are unlikely to fade anytime soon. The next presidential election will likely serve as a flashpoint, amplifying the cultural and political tensions already at play.
In the years to come, it remains to be seen whether society can find a way to bridge these divides, or if polarization will continue to shape our identities, politics, and the way we relate to each other.
