In 2023, Merriam-Webster selected “authentic” as its Word of the Year, reflecting widespread cultural conversations about identity, art, and trust. This evergreen explainer unpacks why the word resonated, how the Word of the Year is chosen, and what its usage reveals about public discourse. Unlike fleeting headline terms, “authentic” maintained durable search and editorial interest across the year, signaling a lasting shift in how people evaluate sincerity and originality online and offline. Below is a detailed profile of the word’s meaning, context, and impact in 2023.
Meaning and Definition of Authentic
According to Merriam-Webster, authentic means “real, genuine, true, or original.” It is used to describe things that are faithful to an original source or that accurately represent an author’s or artist’s own ideas and feelings. The word derives from the Greek authentēs, meaning ‘author,’ and entered English in the 14th century. In 2023, the term evolved in usage to include layers of skepticism toward marketing, media, and personal branding, while also expressing a desire for transparency and self-definition.
Why Authentic Was Chosen as the 2023 Word of the Year
Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Year is determined by a combination of lookup frequency, online traffic, and cultural relevance. In 2023, searches for “authentic” increased markedly compared to previous years. The rise was driven by conversations across several domains, including celebrity identity discussions, brand marketing claims, and debates over originality in art and social media. The selection reflects not only curiosity but also a collective questioning of what counts as real in mediated environments.
Selection Methodology
Merriam-Webster tracks data from digital platforms, print media, and spoken usage to identify trends. The Word of the Year team reviews lookup patterns, news context, and user intent. For 2023, the following factors were particularly influential:
- Sustained high lookup rates throughout the year
- Presence in prominent cultural and political discussions
- Appeal across different demographics and regions
Usage Trends and Context in 2023
Throughout 2023, “authentic” appeared in a wide range of contexts, from food marketing to political speeches. Online, the word was often paired with discussions about influencers, brand transparency, and AI-generated content. As organizations grappled with trust deficits, consumers began to demand more verifiable claims. This environment elevated “authentic” from a descriptive adjective to a cultural benchmark.
Comparative Look at Recent Words of the Year
| Year | Word of the Year | Primary Driver | Topic Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | authentic | Lookup spike across news and marketing | Identity, originality, trust |
| 2022 | gaslighting | Political and psychological discourse | Manipulation and truth |
| 20lookup key2021 | perseverance | Pandemic resilience | Endurance and determination |
| 2020 | superspreader | Public health communication | Epidemiology and events |
Cultural and Media Impact
Media outlets in 2023 frequently framed stories around declining trust and the search for authenticity in leadership, art, and commerce. Spokespeople for major brands emphasized original sourcing and transparent supply chains. In entertainment, creators discussed the tension between algorithmic trends and authentic self-expression. These narratives helped normalize the word in everyday usage, making it accessible beyond academic or niche audiences.
Practical Applications of the Term
Understanding what makes something authentic is increasingly relevant in personal and professional contexts. Below are common applications where the term plays a critical role:
- Marketing and branding: Claims of authenticity now require evidence, such as sourcing details or verifiable impact.
- Art and creativity: Artists balance inspiration with originality, using the term to defend authorship.
- Personal identity: Individuals describe lifestyle choices and self-presentation as authentic when aligned with values.
- Journalism and reporting: Outlets emphasize fact-based, unembellished storytelling to maintain credibility.
Long-Term Relevance Beyond 2023
While tied to a specific year, the prominence of “authentic” reflects enduring questions about truth and representation. As technologies such as generative AI make content creation faster, distinguishing authentic human expression from synthetic output becomes more complex. The word is likely to remain in circulation as institutions and audiences continue to seek clarity and reliability in communication.
FAQ
Reader questions
How is Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Year selected?
Merriam-Webster uses a data-driven approach that combines digital analytics, editorial observation, and cultural relevance. The team identifies terms that show exceptional and sustained interest across multiple channels and contexts.
Does choosing a Word of the Year reflect a political stance?
No. The selection is based on linguistic evidence and usage patterns, not ideology. The goal is to acknowledge a word that has demonstrated meaningful impact on public discourse.
Can a Word of the Year predict trends?
Not directly. The Word of the Year identifies patterns already underway. It serves more as a mirror to culture than a leading indicator, highlighting themes that were already gaining prominence.
Is the Word of the Year the same globally?
No. Other dictionaries and organizations may choose different words based on regional language usage and local cultural conditions. Merriam-Webster’s choice reflects primarily American English usage.
How can I incorporate the word authentic into my work?
Use the term to describe verifiable originality, transparent processes, or expressions aligned with core values. Support claims of authenticity with concrete evidence, such as sourcing details or documented methodologies.