November 20th 2024.
In an unexpected turn of events, the word "manifest" has risen to prominence and secured a place in history as the Cambridge Dictionary's word of the year for 2024. It was first brought to our attention by the likes of Jack Karlson, Dua Lipa, and Simone Biles, who have all used it in various contexts.
The word gained traction among the younger generation, particularly on the popular app TikTok, and has now become a key component of pop culture. Both Dua Lipa and Simone Biles have referenced it when discussing their own success, making it a buzzword in the entertainment industry.
With over 130,000 searches for "manifest" on the Cambridge Dictionary website this year, it was an obvious choice for the publishers to name it their word of the year. According to publishing manager Wendalyn Nichols, its usage has significantly increased in various forms of media, making it a prime example of how the meaning of a word can evolve over time.
One could say that this is a prime example of "democracy manifest," as Jack Karlson famously stated after his arrest while enjoying a "succulent Chinese meal." The public has willed this word into being, much like how Dua Lipa willed her successful career into existence.
Dua Lipa, in particular, is known for using the term "manifest" when discussing her chart-topping records and headlining performance at Glastonbury. During her performance, she shared her journey of working hard and dreaming of achieving such a momentous feat.
However, the meaning of "manifest" has not always been associated with achieving one's goals. In fact, it dates back to the 14th century when English poet Geoffrey Chaucer used it as an adjective meaning "easily noticed or obvious." He also used it as a verb to indicate "showing something clearly through signs or actions."
The word has continued to evolve throughout history, with new meanings and contexts added to its repertoire. In the mid-1800s, it was used in the American political concept of "manifest destiny," which believed that American settlers were destined by a higher power to expand across North America.
This evolution of the word is a natural part of the development of language. However, as Dr. Sander van der Linden, author of The Psychology of Misinformation and Professor of Social Psychology at Cambridge University, warns, there may be a downside to this trend.
He explains that "manifesting" is what psychologists refer to as "magical thinking," the belief that certain mental rituals can change the world around us. This idea gained popularity on TikTok during the pandemic, with the popular 3-6-9 method of writing down wishes multiple times a day.
While there is value in positive thinking, self-affirmation, and goal-setting, Dr. van der Linden cautions against the dangerous idea that one can cure serious diseases simply by wishing them away. This pseudoscience can promote obsessive and compulsive behavior without any actual benefits.
Despite the potential risks, it is understandable why people are drawn to the concept of "manifesting," especially when influential celebrities openly share their successes. However, it is crucial to understand the difference between positive thinking and trying to manipulate reality with one's mind.
In the end, the true power of "manifesting" lies in believing in oneself, maintaining a positive attitude, setting realistic goals, and putting in the effort to make them a reality. This is a healthy approach that can lead to real-world changes, rather than relying on magical thinking.
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