Cambridge Names 'Parasocial' Word of the Year 2025
Cambridge Dictionaries names 'parasocial' Word of the Year 2025, highlighting AI's role in evolving digital relationships.
"Parasocial" Named Word of the Year 2025: AI Chatbots and Digital Relationships Take Center Stage
Cambridge Dictionaries has declared "parasocial" as its Word of the Year for 2025, reflecting a growing cultural and psychological phenomenon in the age of artificial intelligence. The term describes the one-sided relationship that individuals form with public figures, fictional characters, or, increasingly, AI chatbots and virtual assistants. This selection highlights the evolving nature of human connection in the digital era, as more people develop emotional attachments to non-reciprocating digital entities.
What Is a Parasocial Relationship?
A parasocial relationship is a psychological concept first identified in the 1950s, originally describing the bond viewers felt with television personalities. Today, the term has expanded to include relationships with social media influencers, celebrities, and, most notably, AI-powered chatbots. These relationships are characterized by the user feeling a sense of intimacy or connection, despite the other party—whether a celebrity or an AI—being unaware of or unable to reciprocate the feelings.
- Key Features:
- One-sided emotional investment
- Illusion of mutual connection
- Often formed through repeated digital interaction
- Can be with real people (e.g., influencers) or artificial entities (e.g., AI chatbots)
The Rise of AI and Parasocial Bonds
The surge in popularity of AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Replika, and Character.AI has accelerated the formation of parasocial relationships. Millions of users now interact daily with AI companions, sharing personal thoughts, seeking advice, and even forming emotional attachments. According to a 2024 Pew Research study, over 30% of young adults reported feeling emotionally close to an AI chatbot, with some describing these interactions as more supportive than human relationships.
- Examples of AI Chatbots:
- Replika: Designed as an AI friend, users can customize their chatbot’s personality and engage in deep conversations.
- Character.AI: Allows users to interact with AI versions of fictional characters or celebrities.
- ChatGPT: While primarily a productivity tool, many users report forming parasocial bonds with its conversational style.
Psychological Implications and Expert Opinions
Psychologists are divided on the impact of parasocial relationships with AI. Some argue that these connections can provide emotional support and reduce loneliness, especially for individuals who struggle with social anxiety or isolation. Others warn of potential risks, including emotional dependency, reduced motivation for real-world relationships, and the blurring of boundaries between reality and fiction.
-
Dr. Sarah Thompson, a clinical psychologist, notes: “Parasocial relationships with AI can be comforting, but they lack the reciprocity and unpredictability of human interaction. Over-reliance on AI for emotional needs may hinder personal growth and social skills.”
-
Cambridge Dictionaries emphasized that the selection of “parasocial” reflects broader societal trends: “As AI becomes more integrated into daily life, the lines between human and machine relationships are increasingly blurred.”
Cultural and Industry Impact
The recognition of “parasocial” as Word of the Year signals a shift in how society views digital relationships. Tech companies are now designing AI systems to foster deeper emotional connections, raising ethical questions about AI manipulation, privacy, and mental health. Regulators and mental health organizations are calling for guidelines to ensure that AI companions are used responsibly.
- Key Statistics:
- Global AI chatbot market expected to reach $15.5 billion by 2026 (Statista, 2025).
- 40% of AI chatbot users report feeling “understood” by their AI companion (YouGov, 2024).
Visual Representation
Illustration: A person interacting with an AI chatbot on a smartphone, symbolizing a one-sided digital relationship.
Screenshot: Example of a popular AI chatbot interface, showing conversational interaction.
Conclusion: The Future of Human-AI Relationships
The naming of “parasocial” as Word of the Year 2025 underscores the profound impact of AI on human psychology and social behavior. As technology continues to evolve, so too will the nature of our relationships—with both humans and machines. The challenge for society will be to harness the benefits of AI companionship while safeguarding emotional well-being and maintaining authentic human connections.
