In a surprise twist, the word “brat” has been named Collins Dictionary’s Word of the Year 2024. Once a term associated with troublesome behavior, “brat” has transformed into a symbol of confidence and freedom, thanks in part to pop star Charli XCX and her hit album, Brat.
Charli XCX’s sixth album, ‘Brat’, redefined the word with a fresh cultural meaning. According to Collins, the term now embodies a “confident, independent, and hedonistic attitude,” shedding its old reputation as merely a label for mischief. This new “brat” represents self-expression and a carefree spirit, becoming a rallying cry for fans worldwide.
“Inspired by Charli XCX, ‘brat’ is not only an album but a cultural phenomenon,” shared Collins Dictionary. “‘Brat summer’ emerged as an aesthetic, embracing a lifestyle of boldness and self-indulgence.”
The movement even caught the attention of U.S. presidential candidate Kamala Harris’s team, who adopted the “brat” theme in her campaign. Charli XCX fueled the trend in July, tweeting that “Kamala IS brat,” which led to Harris’s campaign using her song “365” in a TikTok video and rebranding with the album’s iconic lime green aesthetic.
The *Brat* album not only hit number one in the UK but also climbed to number three in the U.S. With “brat” becoming a global symbol of resilience and self-acceptance, Collins Dictionary’s Word of the Year title solidifies the word’s cultural significance in 2024.
This new take on “brat” captures the spirit of a generation embracing individuality, a testament to the lasting influence of pop culture and social media on language and lifestyle.
