Every New Year’s Day, a special list makes its debut from Lake Superior State University in Michigan. This list shines a light on words that many believe have overstayed their welcome. It’s a fun way to highlight how our language evolves.
This tradition began 50 years ago when a creative publicist named W.T. Rabe started compiling words he thought were misused or just plain annoying. His idea? To draw attention to the importance of language and communication, making it both relevant and entertaining.
Over the years, people from all over the world have suggested words for the list. It’s interesting to note that language trends often reflect larger cultural shifts. For example, data from a recent survey by the Pew Research Center shows that 58% of Americans feel certain phrases or slang have lost meaning through overuse. This sentiment aligns with why words like “gift” and “massive” are so commonly nominated—they’re used in ways that dilute their original impact.
For 2026, the list includes phrases like “my bad,” which many find childish and insincere, and “reach out,” a term that strayed too far from its emotional roots. Also on the list is “cooked,” used too often to mean feeling overwhelmed. These phrases can be great in the right context, but their overuse takes away from their effectiveness.
Interestingly, “demure” is another entry this year, often confused when paired with “mindful,” even though they have opposite meanings. This illustrates how important it is to choose words wisely.
W.T. Rabe’s legacy extends beyond just this list. After serving in World War II, he returned to the U.S. and infused creativity into everything he did, including organizing quirky events like a snowman burning festival. His knack for grabbing attention even led to a playful campaign against the Beatles during their rise in the 60s—a bold move that added to his career as a communications director.
Today, Lake Superior State University is recognized not just for its academic programs but also for this quirky tradition that keeps the conversation around language lively. It’s a fun way to remind us all to be mindful of our words—after all, language is ever-changing, and what we say matters.
As we look forward to more banished words, it’s essential to remember that language reflects society. What might be considered annoying or overused today may evolve into meaningful expressions tomorrow. So, let’s embrace the change, challenge our vocabulary, and see what new words and phrases will emerge next!
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