At the end of 2025, the editors at Merriam-Webster chose the word "slop" to describe the digital state of the year, defining it as "low-quality digital content, produced in large quantities by artificial intelligence."

At the end of 2025, the editors at Merriam-Webster chose the word "slop" to describe the digital state of the year, defining it as "low-quality digital content produced in large quantities by artificial intelligence." This choice resonated with users, who faced inappropriate AI ads and a declining quality of searches. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella tried to change the discussion, suggesting that the industry should focus on improving AI capabilities, not on debating quality. Companies need to understand that the success of AI depends on delivering tangible results and effectively integrating into workflows. The word "slop" took root in 2025, reflecting a real experience, and to surpass it, the industry must build AI products that users choose, not ones they tolerate.