Collins English Dictionary has named “mogging” its Word of the Year for 2026, selecting a slang term that means outshining, outperforming or upstaging another person or thing.
The dictionary says the word is popular with Generation Z and Generation Alpha, who often use it in a humorous or teasing way. Someone told they are “mogging everyone in the room,” for example, is being praised for standing out.
Collins’ Word of the Year announcement describes the choice as an example of younger generations shaping language. Managing director Alex Beecroft said each generation leaves its mark on the language and that younger speakers have made the term their own.
A playful term with a more competitive edge
“Mogging” is listed as a noun, but Collins says it can also be attached to other words. Examples include “stylemogging,” “carmogging” and “lifemogging,” the last referring to leading a life seen as more impressive than someone else’s.
The term carries a sense of comparison and hierarchy. It is associated with “looksmaxxing,” efforts to improve one’s appearance, but “mogging” specifically suggests outclassing someone. Collins links the word to the acronym AMOG, meaning “Alpha Male of the Group.” Its earlier use has also been associated with bodybuilding forums and the manosphere, although younger speakers now commonly use it playfully.
Collins’ language blog discusses the term’s history and its changing use. Other words considered for the 2026 selection included “Manchesterism,” “carspreading” and “hydration break.” Runners-up included “ghost jobs,” “bixie” and “P(doom).”
Clayton Ward