The American online dictionary Dictionary.com has named «maxxing» its Word of the Year for 2026.

The term derives from «maximizing» and describes the pursuit of taking something to its highest possible level. It can be used on its own or combined with other words to describe the desire to maximise a particular aspect of life. But behind this trendy internet slang lies more than a drive for self-improvement — it also reflects an obsession with constantly becoming a better version of oneself.

Initially, the term «looksmaxxing» gained popularity. It refers to efforts to improve one’s appearance through exercise, grooming and other methods, particularly after a failed relationship or romantic rejection.

Today, the term is used much more broadly, functioning as a kind of linguistic building block for describing different lifestyle habits. For example, «sleepmaxxing» refers to efforts to improve sleep quality, «proteinmaxxing» means increasing protein intake, and «personalitymaxxing» involves working on one’s character traits.

There are also other variations. «Cozymaxxing» describes creating the cosiest possible environment, while «tokenmaxxing» refers to making extensive use of AI tools throughout the working day.

Some approaches, however, go far beyond ordinary self-care. «Hardmaxxing» involves radical methods of changing one’s appearance — from extreme diets and cosmetic surgery to even deliberately breaking bones. «Softmaxxing», by contrast, focuses on more straightforward changes, such as getting a new hairstyle or refreshing one’s personal style.

Despite its popularity on social media, the term carries a darker undertone because of its association with toxic online subcultures and extreme beauty ideals. Moreover, the desire to optimise every minute of life can turn into an endless race towards an unattainable ideal.

Dictionary.com’s shortlist also included «affordability», referring to the ability to afford goods and services; «data center», a facility used to process and store data; «odyssey», a long and eventful journey; and «unc», a slang term for older people whom younger generations consider out of touch.

Incidentally, last year’s Word of the Year, according to British dictionary Collins, was «vibe coding» — the practice of creating websites or software using AI prompts.

Photo: Instagram @kalshi