Politics1 min read

Watch: Why is 'Mogging' the word of the year?

By · Published by Everything Blog

In short

A massive 210% surge in usage propelled the slang term into mainstream culture during 2026. Members of Generations Z and Alpha actively drive the phrase through online platforms as well as daily verbal exchanges. According to Collins English Dictionary managing director Alex Beecroft, lexicographers continuously evaluate frequency and usage patterns to identify major linguistic milestones. Beecroft noted that this specific choice demonstrates how younger generations leave an enduring, distinct mark on language.

Key points

  • Modern internet slang can rapidly transition into everyday speech through widespread adop…: Modern internet slang can rapidly transition into everyday speech through widespread adoption by youth demographics.
  • Lexicographers evaluate linguistic patterns and frequency of appearance to identify evolv…: Lexicographers evaluate linguistic patterns and frequency of appearance to identify evolving cultural shifts in language.
  • The selection of emerging vocabulary highlights how distinct generations continually leav…: The selection of emerging vocabulary highlights how distinct generations continually leave their unique mark on modern English.

Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1

A fast-growing slang word among members of Generations Z and Alpha - both online and in everyday conversation - mogging went mainstream in 2026 with a 210% increase in its usage.

Collins' English Dictionary managing director Alex Beecroft said its lexicographers look at "how often words are used" and also "analyse patterns of usage" that reveal the latest linguistic trends.

The selection of mogging as word of the year, he said, "shows how each generation leaves its mark on language". So what does mogging mean?

The BBC's culture correspondent Noor Nanji explains.

Politics