Brainrot, sometimes spelled brain rot , is a slang term used to describe the effects of being "perpetually online" and consuming large amounts of low-value internet content. " Brain rot " is a popular internet slang term that refers to the perceived negative effects of consuming too much social media content, particularly content that's considered low-quality, repetitive, or mindless. It's become a cornerstone of Gen Z vocabulary and internet culture. The Meaning of Brain Rot When someone says they have " brain rot ," they're usually joking that their excessive consumption of internet content has affected their vocabulary, attention span, or thinking patterns. The ... The first recorded use of ' brain rot ' was found in 1854 in Henry David Thoreau's book Walden, which recounts his experiences of living a simple lifestyle in the natural world. WHY ' BRAIN ROT '? Oxford University Press explained that ' brain rot ' gained new prominence this year as a term used to capture concerns about the impact of consuming excessive amounts of low-quality online content, especially on social media. The term's usage increased by 230% between 2023 and 2024. The term initially ... Brain rot is Oxford's Word of the Year 2024—for good reason. It reflects our overstimulation struggle, but simple steps can help reclaim your mental edge.
