What is Collins English Dictionary word of the year? "Mogging" for 2026
Collins English Dictionary, a dictionary published by HarperCollins in Glasgow, named "mogging" its 2026 word of the year. The slang means to outshine or outperform someone or something, and it is used mainly by Gen Z and Gen Alpha. Collins said usage rose 210% during 2026.
Why it's in the news
Collins English Dictionary announced that "mogging" is its 2026 word of the year, with usage up 210% during the year. The announcement was covered widely.
- Mogging — Collins English Dictionary names "mogging" its 2026 word of the year
Background
The word first appeared in bodybuilding culture around 2016, according to Collins writer Rachel Quin, and it is believed to have begun as a shortening of "AMOG," meaning "alpha male of the group." Earlier, it was a noun for the most physically dominant man in a gym. Later it became a verb and was briefly adopted by the manosphere before spreading through online communities.
Collins lexicographers monitor about 27 billion words each year, according to managing director Alex Beecroft. Other shortlisted words included "hydration break," which referred to mandatory pauses at 2026 World Cup matches in the USA, Mexico and Canada; "Manchesterism," a political philosophy linked to Prime Minister Andy Burnham; and "ghost job," a listing by an employer with no intention of hiring. The shortlist also included "carspreading," "firewave," "friendslop," "fricy," "bixie" and "P(doom)."
Beecroft said the choice shows how each generation shapes language. Rachel Quin said the shortlist felt like "one big mogging contest," with terms covering transport, politics, climate, employment and culture.