Parasocial - that one-sided feeling you really know a celebrity - is Cambridge Dictionary's word of the year

Do you feel like you know Alan Carr and what he would say or do? What about Taylor Swift, or even Donald Trump?

The new Cambridge Dictionary word of the year for 2025 has been revealed: "parasocial" - defined as involving or relating to a connection that someone feels between themselves and a famous person they do not know.

Psychologists have studied how the rise of one-sided parasocial relationships has redefined fame, fandom and celebrity.

For example, when pop star Taylor Swift and American footballer Travis Kelce announced their engagement, many fans felt a strong connection to them despite most not having met them.

The parasocial relationships between people and online influencers and AI chatbots is a growing phenomenon. Many people even value parasocial relationships more than some real ones.
A 2024 study revealed that while people found their emotional needs were still best met by friends and family, parasocial relationships with YouTubers were valued more than relationships with "real" acquaintances or colleagues.

Colin McIntosh of the Cambridge Dictionary said: "What was once a specialist academic term has become mainstream.