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Cambridge Dictionary has chosen “Parasocial” as its 2025 Word of the Year, reflecting the rapidly growing trend of one-sided emotional bonds people form with celebrities, influencers, and now AI chatbots like ChatGPT. Viral videos show youngsters treating AI as companions, even partners, sharing emotions and seeking guidance.
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New Delhi: A video recently went viral on social media, showing many young people admitting that they no longer rely on friends or family for advice, communication, and emotional support, but on AI chatbots like ChatGPT. Some even described it as a companion like their "boyfriend" or "girlfriend," with whom they talk throughout the day and share their joys and sorrows. The term "parasocial" is being used to describe this rapidly spreading behavior.
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On November 18, Cambridge Dictionary announced "parasocial" as its 2025 Word of the Year. This word aptly reflects the psychological changes people are experiencing in today's digital lifestyle, social media, and AI era.
According to the dictionary, the popularity of this term has suddenly increased exponentially in online searches, as people are looking for new words to understand their digital emotions.
A parasocial relationship develops when a person feels a one-sided emotional connection with a celebrity, influencer, or AI chatbot.
The person feels that the other person understands them,
shares feelings with them,
but the other party doesn't even know them.
This is why it's called a "one-sided emotional connection."
Several studies have found that AI chatbots can quickly and sensitively understand people's emotions.
They listen without judgment,
Provide instant advice,
Available at any time.
This is why many people have come to consider ChatGPT a "digital companion" for their emotional needs.
While some people are happy with this, experts warn that this connection can sometimes exacerbate stress, confusion, or loneliness.
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According to dictionary editor Colin McIntosh:
"Parasocial" perfectly captures today's social climate and digital culture. Millions of people are unknowingly engaged in such relationships." He says that this trend has now become mainstream thanks to AI, celebrities, and social media influencers. The story of "parasocial" began in 1956.
The term was coined by two sociologists at the University of Chicago. They observed that TV viewers began to associate themselves with the actors they saw on screen.
Today, the same concept has returned in a new form—and is more profound than ever—through AI chatbots, YouTubers, and social media stars.
