“Manifest” has been declared the word of the year for 2024 by the Cambridge Dictionary, with popstar Dua Lipa and gymnast Simone Biles sharing their own experiences of manifesting success. The term has seen a surge in popularity on social media this year, with over 130,000 searches on the Cambridge Dictionary website. The definition of manifest has evolved to signify imagining achieving desired outcomes with the belief that it will enhance the likelihood of them happening. While the term has gained widespread use, Dr. Sander van der Linden from Cambridge University cautions that manifesting lacks scientific backing and falls under the realm of “magical thinking.” Despite this, positive thinking and goal setting have been proven to be beneficial.
The history of the word “manifest” dates back to its usage as an adjective by Geoffrey Chaucer in 1380, meaning ‘easily noticed.’ Over time, it evolved into a noun and was eventually adopted as a verb, changing to symbolize ‘to appear’ like a ghost or spirit. The current popular definition of manifest draws on its modern usage in social media circles, highlighting the power of visualization and affirmation to realize goals. Last year’s word of the year was “hallucinate.” The redefinition of the word manifest exemplifies how language can adapt and evolve over time, reflecting shifts in societal trends and beliefs. This article underscores the growing influence of manifesting in contemporary culture and its impact in shaping individuals’ mindsets towards achieving their dreams.
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