The Daily Mail reports that the word manifest has been named the Cambridge Dictionary’s word of the year for 2024.
The term went viral thanks to social media discussion and statements from stars such as singer Dua Lipa and gymnast Simone Biles, who spoke about how they “manifested” their successes.
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, the word was searched more than 350 times daily, resulting in almost 130,000 searches over a year. This made it one of the most popular words of the year.
The dictionary editors noted that the meaning of the word “manifest” changed in 2024: it now refers to the process of visualizing the achievement of a desired thing, believing that it increases the chances of success.
For example, Dua Lipa said on stage at the Glastonbury festival, “I have been recording this moment, dreaming about it, and working hard to make it a reality.”
Cambridge Dictionary editor Wendalyn Nichols emphasized that the word’s rise in popularity in 2024 demonstrates how language adapts to changes in culture. Despite controversy over the concept’s scientific validity, the manifestation has become a symbol of optimism and aspiration for a better future that attracts millions of people around the world.