Collins Dictionary has declared ‘brat’ as its word of the year, largely influenced by Charli XCX’s hit album. Previously, the term simply referred to a misbehaving child, but now it encapsulates a “confident, independent, and hedonistic attitude.”
Collins English Dictionary highlighted, “Brat has become one of the most discussed words of 2024. More than just a successful album, it’s a cultural phenomenon that has captured global attention, with ‘brat summer’ becoming both an aesthetic and lifestyle.”
Charli XCX describes ‘brat’ as embodying a girl who manages her breakdowns by partying through them. It denotes rejecting the polished, “clean girl” image prevalent on social media. “You’re that girl who’s messy, loves to party, and sometimes says the wrong thing. She’s honest, blunt, and a bit volatile,” Charli explained in a TikTok interview. Further detailing the archetype on the BBC Sidetracked podcast, she mentioned a typical ‘brat’ might carry “a pack of cigs, a Bic lighter, and a strappy white top with no bra.”
What began as an album title has evolved into a broader cultural movement. Even US presidential candidate Kamala Harris’s team tapped into the ‘brat’ vibe, rebranding her social media to appeal to younger voters early in her campaign.
Collins’ lexicographers monitor trends on social media and other platforms to identify words for their annual update. This year, terms like delulu (having unrealistic expectations) and looksmaxxing (efforts to maximise one’s attractiveness) also made the list of new entries to the Collins dictionary.
