Dictionary.com Chooses Undefined ’67’ as 2025 Word of the Year

Dictionary.com has announced “67” as the Word of the Year for 2025. Interestingly, this term lacks a clear definition but resonates deeply with current cultural trends.

Origin of the Term “67”

The expression “67” traces its roots to rapper Skrilla’s song “Doot Doot (6 7),” released in December 2022. The slang has captured the attention of the younger generation, becoming a popular catchphrase among students and athletes alike.

Viral Popularity and Cultural Impact

• Initially popularized through TikTok videos featuring basketball highlights.
• Charlotte Hornets’ LaMelo Ball helped spread the term, standing 6 feet, 7 inches tall.
• LeBron James and Paige Bueckers also adopted the term in interviews.

“67” has evolved into a playful way for children to reference numbers and communicate in their own unique manner. According to middle school teacher Philip Lindsay, the phrase is used in numerous contexts: asking about someone’s height or the time. He remarked that it’s now a staple phrase among younger students.

Search Trends and Cultural Adaptations

Searches for “67” surged over the summer, increasing more than sixfold since June. This spike reflects its growing influence, inspiring musical mashups and even plotlines in shows like South Park.

Meaning and Significance

Interestingly, “67” defies traditional definitions. Dictionary.com describes it as “meaningless, ubiquitous, and nonsensical.” Even Skrilla, the term’s creator, acknowledged that he intentionally kept its meaning ambiguous. The term has shifted from a negative connotation to something more positive over time.

Despite its unclear meaning, “67” fosters a sense of community among the younger generation. Parenting expert Becky Kennedy noted that while the term may seem empty in content, it connects individuals through shared experiences. Lindsay reports receiving numerous messages from parents who have deepened their bonds with their children by embracing this term.

Future of “67”

With its new recognition, experts speculate that “67” might face the typical lifecycle of youth trends—possibly becoming cringeworthy to the next generation. However, due to its numeric nature, the term may endure longer in common usage within educational settings.

Ultimately, “67” represents a unique cultural phenomenon that encapsulates the dynamic relationship between language, the internet, and intergenerational connections. As we move forward into 2025, it will be intriguing to see how “67” continues to evolve and influence conversations among diverse age groups.