ADVERTISEMENT

'Fake news' is officially the 2017 word of the year

Its definition: "false, often sensational, information disseminated under the guise of news reporting."

Every year, we pick up new lingo thanks to newsworthy people and events — but some stand out more than others.

ADVERTISEMENT

Perhaps unsurprisingly, The Collins Word of the Year 2017 — an annual campaign that gives "a chance to reflect on the words that have defined the last 12 months" — is "fake news."

As defined by Collins, "fake news" means "false, often sensational, information disseminated under the guise of news reporting."

The word saw an "unprecedented usage increase of 365%" since 2016, according to the company.

ADVERTISEMENT

"It has been derided by the leader of the free world and accused of influencing elections, but 'fake news' is today legitimate news as it is named Collins’ Word of the Year 2017," the site states.

You can watch Collins' hilarious announcement of the Word of the Year here:

Collins Dictionary announce their 2017 Word of the Year

It added: "In a year that’s been so unbelievable it’s hard to know what is fact and what is fiction, you can rely on Collins to keep you updated on the words you need to know."

The shortlisted words for 2017 include "unicorn," "echo chamber," "gig economy," and "cuffing season."

ADVERTISEMENT

The 2016 winner was "Brexit," while "binge-watch" took the title in 2015.

FOLLOW BUSINESS INSIDER AFRICA

Unblock notifications in browser settings.
ADVERTISEMENT

Recommended articles

Edward Howarth of DashTickets talks about gambling in Africa

Edward Howarth of DashTickets talks about gambling in Africa

Eco-friendly gambling: The impact of online slots on sustainability

Eco-friendly gambling: The impact of online slots on sustainability

Chad to become the first of Africa's current junta-led states to move to democracy

Chad to become the first of Africa's current junta-led states to move to democracy

Russia spreads its military influence to another African country

Russia spreads its military influence to another African country

A look into South Korea’s rice gift to Africa

A look into South Korea’s rice gift to Africa

FBNBank Ghana changes to FirstBank Ghana to align with group identity

FBNBank Ghana changes to FirstBank Ghana to align with group identity

Nigeria restricts power export to neighbouring countries to meet domestic demand

Nigeria restricts power export to neighbouring countries to meet domestic demand

NOG Energy Week 2024: West African countries harnessing gas for industrialisation to boost economic development

NOG Energy Week 2024: West African countries harnessing gas for industrialisation to boost economic development

10 African countries with the smallest labor force

10 African countries with the smallest labor force

ADVERTISEMENT