In 2024, the term “extreme weather” was included in dictionary.com’s shortlist for word of the year, reflecting a surge in public interest linked to disastrous climate events such as hurricanes and wildfires. Although “demure” was chosen as the winner, the focus on extreme weather highlights a growing awareness of climate issues, with online searches increasing by 70 percent compared to the previous year.
The term “extreme weather” has gained notable attention in 2024, as it appears on dictionary.com’s shortlist for the word of the year. This surge in relevance reflects a notable increase in online searches related to the term, attributed to a series of climate-related disasters that have impacted public consciousness. Events such as Hurricane Helene, severe droughts in Brazil, extensive flooding in Nigeria, and destructive wildfires across Canada, Portugal, and California have all contributed to this heightened awareness.
The data indicates that in January 2024, searches for “extreme weather” were 70 percent higher compared to the same month in 2023. While “demure” was ultimately selected as the word of the year due to its rise in popularity through social media, the phrase “extreme weather” signifies a critical and ongoing discussion regarding climate change and its consequences. This evolving narrative underscores the urgent relevance of environmental issues in contemporary dialogue.
The term “extreme weather” pertains to significant and often severe weather events that deviate from typical climatic patterns, such as hurricanes, heatwaves, droughts, and floods. The increasing frequency and intensity of these events are often linked to discussions surrounding climate change, making the term increasingly relevant. The year 2024 has been marked by a series of climate-related disasters, leading to heightened discourse about their impact on both local and global scales. The presence of such terminology in the public domain reflects growing awareness and concern about environmental issues and climate action.
The prominence of “extreme weather” on dictionary.com’s shortlist for the word of the year showcases the term’s increasing significance in societal discussions surrounding climate change. The increase in online searches and media coverage indicates a rising public consciousness of the implications of extreme weather events. As global awareness continues to evolve, the discourse around climate and its pressing challenges is likely to remain a pivotal theme in contemporary dialogue.
Original Source: www.theweathernetwork.com
