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More words and catchphrases in a constantly evolving vocabulary.

Here are ten words (or phrases) that are new to the vocabulary, or a few words that belong to a time passed.

Triggering – Signals from our nervous system that something in our past still needs healing. Stimuli that evokes a response, usually, but not always, a negative or emotional response.

A.I slop – In this new artificial world order, it’s increasingly challenging to distinguish reality from A.I., although there can be clues, like people with six fingers. Slop is good because it disqualifies itself in this age where reality and fakery can be unsettling.

Glitchiness – Something isn’t working quite right, maybe an intermittent or occasional problem. Annoying.

Microstress – Small, repeated sources of stress that build up over time (like constant notifications), not being able keep up, ongoing interruptions.

Situationship – A romantic relationship that is more than a friendship but lacks a clear label. Perhaps this replaces “friend with benefits” category.

Doomscrolling – Compulsively scrolling through endless upsetting news online. Like any time since January 2025.

Rizz – Short for charisma, specifically the ability to attract or charm others. This might be what is meant by “putting on the Ritz”, it’s close enough.

Gruttling – Weird noise that can’t be explained. Generally, this would apply to most men over age 70 or vehicles that are now out of warranty.

Humbuggery – Dishonest chatter and deceptive behaviour. I can’t say that this word crops up much. When I do hear it, I think “hamburgelar”, the McDonald’s masked character. Given the high prices, McDonald’s is the hamburgelar now.

Groak – Watching someone eat while hoping they will share their food. My dog Charlie groaks me.

Bonus

Pang-Wangle – To live or go along cheerfully in spite of minor misfortunes. Well, I’ve come this far, might as well stay the course.