From Hype to Slop: Why 2025’s Word of the Year Matters for Online Creators

Every December, Merriam‑Webster crowns a Word of the Year — a signal of what’s shaping our culture. For 2025, the word is “slop.”

Defined as mass‑produced, low‑quality digital content, usually AI‑generated, “slop” captures the fatigue many feel with the endless flood of mediocre output. From books to ads to movies, generative tools like OpenAI’s Sora and Google’s Veo have filled every corner of the web. One study even found that by May, 75% of web content involved AI in some way.

The result? A “slop economy” where bad content still makes good ad revenue. Critics warn this could split the internet into two worlds:

High‑quality paywalls for those who can afford them.

Low‑quality free feeds for everyone else.

But here’s the twist: “slop” isn’t just mockery. It’s a cultural signal. We’ve moved past the hype of “AI can make content” into the exhaustion of asking: “Should it?”

Why This Matters for Creators and Affiliates

For those of us building businesses online, this word is a wake‑up call. It reminds us that:

Information matters more than output. Flooding the web with content isn’t enough; resonance and clarity are what people value.

Authenticity is currency. In a slop economy, genuine voices stand out.

Community is the antidote. Belonging, dialogue, and shared rituals cut through the noise.

At Wealthy Affiliate, this is especially relevant. Affiliate marketing thrives not on slop, but on trust. Readers don’t want another generic AI‑spun article; they want guidance, stories, and recommendations that feel human.

My Takeaway

“Slop” may be Merriam‑Webster’s Word of the Year, but what does it mean for us as creators, affiliates, and storytellers?

We can build spaces where information is valued, where stories are shared, and where growth feels authentic. The challenge and opportunity lie in 2026 and beyond.

I’m not against the use of AI; in fact, it can help us so much. But it has to remain a tool that supports your creativity and connection, not a replacement for your unique voice.

Do you feel the internet is drowning in low‑quality content, or do you see this as an opportunity for authentic voices to shine?

Share your thoughts below. I’d love to hear how you’re navigating the balance between AI tools and genuine connection in your work.