Vibe Coding Tech Revolution

How ‘Vibe Coding’ Captured the Technological Zeitgeist of 2025

Collins Dictionary has officially chosen ‘vibe coding’ as its term for the year, a choice that perfectly encapsulates the profound shifts in technology and language. For anyone who has ever dreamed of building a piece of software without the prerequisite of learning complex code, this new approach represents a significant breakthrough. The term, which is actually a two-term phrase, describes the method of building an application or a website by simply describing the desired outcome to an artificial intelligence. This technique stands in stark contrast to the traditional process of manually writing lines of programming code. It signifies a democratisation of digital creation, opening up new possibilities for innovation to a much broader audience. The selection of this phrase highlights a growing trend where human-computer interaction becomes more conversational and intuitive, fundamentally altering the landscape of software development and digital creativity for years to come.

The Genesis of a New Coding Philosophy

Andrej Karpathy, a prominent figure in artificial intelligence and a co-founder of OpenAI, first introduced the phrase ‘vibe coding’ back in February. Karpathy conceived the term to articulate how AI could liberate programmers from the granular details of syntax and logic. His vision was for developers to feel that "the actual programming lines might as well not exist" and instead to simply "focus on the vibes" while putting together a piece of software. This philosophy suggests a future where the creative impulse is no longer constrained by technical barriers. Karpathy's own experiments, such as building a functional iOS app in a language he did not know, demonstrated the powerful potential of this approach. It represents a paradigm shift from a structured, rule-based process to a more fluid and intuitive dialogue between the creator and the machine, empowering a new generation of innovators.

A Lexicon for the Modern Age

‘Vibe coding’ was selected from a shortlist of ten words and phrases that lexicographers at Collins believe capture the prevailing sentiment, vocabulary, and primary concerns of 2025. To compile this annual list, they meticulously monitor the 24-billion-word Collins Corpus, which gathers data from a diverse range of media sources, including social media platforms. The inclusion of ‘vibe coding’ signals its rapid ascent in common usage since it first appeared. This process of word selection serves as a cultural barometer, capturing the concepts and conversations that define a particular year. The 2025 list is heavily influenced by technology, illustrating how advancements in artificial intelligence are not just changing our tools, but also the very language we use to describe our world and our interactions within it.

From Idea to Application in Simple Steps

The practical application of ‘vibe coding’ is remarkably straightforward, making it accessible to individuals without any prior programming knowledge. By providing a simple, natural language description to an AI-powered system, like requesting an application to “organise a meal plan for the week,” anyone can create basic applications. This process removes the steep learning curve traditionally associated with software development. While the creation of more intricate and sophisticated tools still requires a degree of specialised skill, this practice has undeniably opened the doors of digital creation to a wider audience of non-coders. It empowers individuals to transform their ideas into tangible digital products, fostering a more inclusive and diverse technological ecosystem where innovation is no longer the exclusive domain of professional programmers.

The Inevitable Imperfections of Innovation

As with any nascent technology, ‘vibe coding’ is not without its flaws. Many who have experimented with this method have discovered that it is far from perfect. There is no absolute guarantee that the code generated by the artificial intelligence will function as intended or be without errors and glitches. This raises important questions about quality control, security, and accountability in a world where software can be created with minimal human oversight. While it excels at rapid prototyping and simple applications, its reliability in professional, mission-critical settings remains a subject of debate among experts. The convenience it offers must be carefully weighed against the potential risks, highlighting the ongoing need for human expertise in debugging, maintenance, and ensuring the security of AI-generated code.

Language Evolving with Technology

Alex Beecroft, the Managing Director of Collins, has stated that the term ‘vibe coding’ wonderfully shows how our language is changing as technology moves forward. His comment underscores the symbiotic relationship between our linguistic expression and our technological advancements. As new tools and concepts emerge, so too must the words to describe them. The annual selection of ‘vibe coding’ is a testament to this dynamic process. It signifies a significant cultural shift towards a more intuitive and AI-assisted approach in various aspects of our daily lives, extending far beyond the realm of Silicon Valley. This evolution in language reflects a broader societal adaptation to a world where interacting with artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly commonplace and conversational.

The Rise of the 'Clankers'

The complete list of terms did not all originate in 2025; rather, Collins identified this particular year as the period when these words gained widespread popularity. A notable example is “clanker,” a derogatory term for robots that originated in the Star Wars franchise in the mid-2000s. The word experienced a viral resurgence on TikTok during July, as users began to share their frustrations and distrust of AI-powered machines. This trend reflects a growing societal anxiety about the increasing prevalence of artificial intelligence and its potential impact on human jobs and autonomy. The use of “clanker” as a form of insult anthropomorphises these machines, making them a target for human discontent in an era of rapid technological change.

The Art of 'Aura Farming'

Another term that gained significant traction is “aura farming,” which describes performing actions solely to appear impressive, especially while aware of being recorded. Although it initially appeared during January 2024, its popularity soared throughout 2025. The concept merges the idea of an “aura” – a person’s distinctive energy or charisma – with “farming,” a term borrowed from gaming culture where players repeat tasks to accumulate resources. In this context, individuals are methodically cultivating a charismatic persona through stylised and often repetitive actions. The trend was popularised by an Indonesian boy whose calm and rhythmic dancing on a boat during a traditional festival captured the internet’s imagination, turning him into a global symbol of effortless coolness.

The Influence of the 'Broligarchy'

The portmanteau “broligarchy” also secured a place on the list. It gained traction during 2024, and people use it to refer to the powerful and predominantly male proprietors of the world's largest technology companies. Its usage became more frequent in 2025, particularly following the high-profile attendance of a number of these tech leaders at the inauguration of Donald Trump, the US President. Coined by sociologist Brooke Harrington, the term highlights concerns about the immense political influence wielded by this small group of individuals who, despite often benefiting from government operations, can seem indifferent or even hostile to democratic traditions. Their ability to shape public discourse and policy through their platforms and financial contributions has raised critical questions about the concentration of power in the digital age.

Biohacking: Redesigning the Human Body

The practice of “biohacking” was another notable entry. This involves making deliberate changes to your body's innate biological functions, with the goal of enhancing your overall health and extending your lifespan. This trend encompasses a wide range of activities, from simple dietary changes and supplement regimens to more extreme interventions like implanting microchips or engaging in genetic engineering. Proponents of biohacking view the human body as a system that can be optimised and upgraded through scientific and technological means. It reflects a growing desire for greater control over personal health and a proactive approach to combating the effects of ageing, pushing the boundaries of what is considered natural and possible for the human form.

Coolcation: The New Wave of Travel

In the realm of travel, “coolcation” emerged as a popular term for a holiday taken in a destination known for its colder weather. This trend is seen as a direct response to the increasingly scorching summer temperatures in traditional holiday destinations. As heatwaves become more common and intense, travellers are actively seeking refuge in cooler regions, swapping Mediterranean beaches for the fjords of Norway or the mountains of Canada. This shift in travel preferences reflects a growing awareness of climate change and its impact on tourism. A “coolcation” offers not just a respite from the heat but also an opportunity to explore different landscapes and cultures, often away from the overcrowded hotspots of the summer season.

Glaze: The Art of Excessive Flattery

The slang term “glaze” found its way onto the shortlist, and it means to give someone unearned or excessive compliments and adulation. Drawing its imagery from the shiny, sugary coating on a doughnut, the term is primarily used with a negative connotation. It implies a lack of sincerity in the compliments being offered, suggesting that the praise is merely a thin veneer masking some other intention. The use of “glaze” has become common in online discussions to describe situations where flattery feels inauthentic or creates a sense of discomfort. It captures a modern scepticism towards overt displays of adulation, particularly in an era dominated by social media where public image and validation are often meticulously curated.

HENRY: The Financially Stretched High Earners

The acronym “Henry” stands for “high earner, not rich yet,” describing a demographic of people who have a substantial income but have not yet accumulated significant wealth. This term, first coined in a 2003 Fortune magazine article, has gained renewed prominence as it aptly describes the financial predicament of many young professionals. Despite their impressive salaries, HENRYs often find their income consumed by high living costs, student loan debt, and the pressures of maintaining a certain lifestyle. This leaves them with little to no savings, creating a frustrating paradox where their high earnings do not translate into financial security. The term highlights the growing challenges of wealth accumulation, even for those in high-paying professions.

Micro-retirement: Reimagining the Career Path

The concept of a “micro-retirement” also made the list. It refers to a planned pause from working, taken in between different jobs, allowing a person to focus on personal hobbies and passions. This trend, particularly popular among Gen Z and millennials, challenges the traditional notion of a linear career path followed by a single retirement at the end. Instead, individuals are choosing to take intentional pauses to travel, learn a new skill, or simply rest and recharge before re-entering the workforce. A micro-retirement is a self-funded break, distinct from a company-sponsored sabbatical, and it reflects a broader cultural shift towards prioritising work-life balance, mental wellbeing, and personal fulfilment over the relentless pursuit of corporate advancement.

Taskmasking: The Illusion of Productivity

Finally, “taskmasking” describes the behavior of creating a misleading appearance of being busy and productive while at one's job. In an environment of remote and hybrid work, where direct supervision is often limited, the pressure to appear busy can be intense. Taskmasking involves activities such as moving a mouse to keep a status indicator active, attending meetings without contributing, or sending emails at strategic times to create the illusion of constant engagement. This behaviour is a direct consequence of a work culture that often values performative business over actual output. It highlights the challenges of measuring productivity in the modern workplace and the psychological strain placed on employees to constantly demonstrate their worth.

The Democratisation of Digital Creation

The rise of ‘vibe coding’ is more than just a linguistic curiosity; it represents a fundamental shift in the landscape of software development. For decades, the ability to create digital tools was a skill reserved for a select few who had invested years in learning complex programming languages. This created a significant barrier to entry, leaving many innovative ideas unrealised. AI-powered tools are now dismantling this barrier, allowing anyone with a clear vision to become a creator. This democratisation of technology has the potential to unleash a wave of creativity, as individuals from diverse backgrounds are empowered to build solutions for their own communities and industries. The implications for entrepreneurship are immense, as the cost and complexity of launching a tech startup are dramatically reduced.

The Debate Over AI in Development

While the accessibility of ‘vibe coding’ is widely celebrated, it has also sparked a heated debate within the software development community. Purists argue that a deep understanding of the underlying code is essential for creating robust, secure, and maintainable applications. They express concern that relying on AI to generate code could lead to a proliferation of poorly constructed software with hidden vulnerabilities. Proponents, on the other hand, argue that AI is simply the next evolution in a long history of tools designed to abstract away complexity. They contend that AI assistants can handle the tedious and repetitive aspects of coding, freeing up human developers to focus on higher-level problem-solving and creative design.

The Future of the Programming Profession

The increasing sophistication of AI coding assistants has inevitably led to speculation about the future of the programming profession itself. Some predict that the demand for traditional software engineers will decline as AI becomes capable of handling more complex development tasks. Others believe that the role of the developer will simply evolve. Instead of writing code line by line, the programmer of the future may act more like an architect or a conductor, guiding AI systems to build and refine applications. This would require a different set of skills, with an emphasis on clear communication, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of user needs. The ability to effectively prompt and collaborate with AI could become the most valuable skill in a developer’s toolkit.

Ethical Considerations and the Black Box Problem

A significant concern associated with ‘vibe coding’ is the “black box” problem, where the AI generates functional code without revealing the logic behind its decisions. This lack of transparency can make it incredibly difficult to debug problems or to ensure the code is free from bias or security flaws. As AI plays a larger role in creating the software that runs our world, the ethical implications of this opacity become increasingly significant. There are growing calls for greater transparency and explainability in AI systems, particularly in critical applications such as healthcare, finance, and infrastructure. Ensuring that we can understand and trust the code generated by AI will be a crucial challenge in the years to come.

A New Era of Human-Computer Collaboration

Ultimately, the emergence of ‘vibe coding’ signals the beginning of a new era of human-computer collaboration. The relationship between creator and tool is becoming more of a partnership, with AI acting as an intelligent collaborator that can augment human creativity and productivity. This shift is not unique to software development; it is being replicated across numerous fields, from art and music to scientific research and engineering. As we become more adept at communicating our intentions to AI systems, we will unlock new possibilities for innovation and problem-solving. The challenge lies in navigating this new landscape responsibly, ensuring that these powerful tools are used to create a more equitable and prosperous future for all. The conversation sparked by ‘vibe coding’ is just the beginning of a much larger societal dialogue about our evolving relationship with technology.