What is ‘Maxxing’? Viral trend named Dictionary.com’s word of the year

27 Oct 2026 • 6:05 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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What is ‘Maxxing’? Viral trend named Dictionary.com’s word of the year

  • Dictionary.com has named Maxxing its word of the year for 2026.
  • Short for maximising, the slang term refers to optimising an aspect of life or doing something to the fullest.
  • Usage of the word in digital media surged nearly 19 times in August 2026 compared to the average monthly usage in 2025.
  • Originating from video gaming and online incel forums, the adaptable suffix is now applied across various trends, including dating tactics and military messaging.
  • Maxxing beat shortlisted contenders such as affordability, data centre, odyssey, and unc to secure the title.

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