Lake Superior State University has released its 50th annual banished words list, and the internet is not happy.
The 2026 banned words list has officially arrived, and it is already causing frustration among Gen Z and millennials. Every year, Lake Superior State University in Michigan publishes its famous banished words list, highlighting slang and expressions that have, in their view, worn out their welcome. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the tradition, making the latest list one of the most talked about yet.
After reviewing more than 1,400 public submissions, the university revealed the top 10 most annoying and overused words of 2025. Unsurprisingly, many of them are deeply embedded in modern online culture, especially on social media platforms like TikTok, X, and Instagram.
What Is the Banished Words List and Why Does It Exist?
You might be wondering what a banished words list actually is and why it has been running for half a century. The tradition began back in 1976 as what Lake Superior State University describes as a whimsical New Year’s Eve party idea.
Former public relations director W.T. Bill Rabe introduced the first official list under the lengthy title “List of Words Banished from the Queen’s English because of mis-, mal-, over-use, or general uselessness.” Since then, the university has carried the torch, turning the list into an annual reflection on how language evolves and, sometimes, deteriorates through overuse.
Although the list is meant to be lighthearted, it often sparks heated debate. Language lovers see it as a call for clarity, while younger generations view it as an attack on cultural expression.
Why the 2026 Banned Words List Hits Harder Than Ever
This year’s list feels particularly controversial because it targets slang that dominates online conversations. From viral TikTok phrases to corporate buzzwords, the selections reflect a growing frustration with how quickly words rise and fall in popularity.
If you have kids or spend time on social media, you have almost certainly heard the number one banned phrase. In fact, you might already be tired of it yourself.
The Most Annoying Word of 2025 According to LSSU
6-7
Topping the 2026 banned words list is the phrase “6-7.” The expression exploded online through bizarre AI generated videos, including viral clips of Cristiano Ronaldo shouting it repeatedly.
The phrase is believed to originate from the song “Doot Doot (6,7)” by American rapper Skrilla. While many users repeat it without understanding its meaning, LSSU voters clearly felt it had crossed the line.
One participant summed it up bluntly, saying there are six or seven reasons why this phrase needs to be stopped.
Other Words That Made the 2026 Banned Words List
Demure
Once used to describe someone reserved, modest, or shy, “demure” has taken on a new life online. On social media, it often means intentionally low key or classy.
Examples like “She didn’t argue, didn’t brag, just showed up and won. Very demure” became common. However, critics argue that constant use has diluted its original meaning.
Cooked
If you are “cooked,” you are out of options or losing badly. The term is popular on TikTok and in sports trash talk, but not everyone is a fan.
One submission suggested banning all forms of the word “cook,” arguing that it has become lazy shorthand for failure.
Massive
“Massive” is a word many millennials still use regularly. However, voters complained that it is often applied incorrectly and far too often.
According to one submission, the word has become a default exaggeration rather than a meaningful descriptor.
Incentivise
The word “incentivise” landed on the list due to its growing use as a verb. Critics asked a simple question. What is wrong with “motivate”?
For language purists, this is another example of corporate speak creeping into everyday conversation.
Full Stop
While punctuation is essential, saying “full stop” out loud to end an argument is seen as unnecessary and irritating.
LSSU voters described it as redundant punctuation that adds nothing to the point being made.
Perfect
“Perfect” is commonly used in emails, especially in professional settings. Yet many argue it is rarely accurate.
One participant questioned how anyone can truly know something is perfect, while another noted the word is often used without real thought.
Gift and Gifted
Using “gift” or “gifted” as a verb continues to divide opinion. Although the usage is not new, some voters felt strongly enough to nominate it again.
One submission pointed out that the term appeared on the list as far back as 1994, yet still refuses to disappear.
My Bad
“My bad” might sound casual and harmless, but critics say it feels dated and insincere. To some, it screams 1990s rom com apology rather than genuine accountability.
Reach Out
Once associated with emotional support, “reach out” has become a corporate cliché. It is now commonly used in emails, customer service messages, and LinkedIn posts.
According to voters, the phrase has lost all warmth and become absurdly overused.
Why Gen Z and Millennials Are Pushing Back
Many Gen Z and millennial users see the 2026 banned words list as out of touch. Slang evolves naturally, especially online, and banning words can feel like an attempt to police culture.
For younger generations, these phrases are not just words. They are part of identity, humor, and shared experience. Removing them feels less like linguistic housekeeping and more like generational criticism.
Still, others argue that the list serves as a useful reminder to communicate more clearly and intentionally.
What the Banished Words List Says About Language Today
The debate surrounding the 2026 banned words list highlights a bigger issue. Language moves faster than ever, driven by memes, algorithms, and viral trends.
Words can go from clever to exhausting in a matter of months. While some see this as creative freedom, others worry about meaning being lost along the way.
LSSU’s list does not actually ban anything. Instead, it invites reflection on how and why we use certain words.
Conclusion
The 2026 banned words list from Lake Superior State University may be meant as a playful tradition, but its impact is real. By targeting phrases loved by Gen Z and millennials, it has reignited debates about language, culture, and generational divides.
Whether you agree with the list or not, it proves one thing clearly. Words matter, and how we use them says a lot about who we are and the times we live in.
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