“Brat”, popularized by Charli XCX, has been named Word of the Year 2024 by the British Collins Dictionary

The term, which now refers to “a cultural phenomenon” according to Collins, has become a symbol of self-acceptance and one’s imperfections.

The word “brat”, “sale gosse” in English, brought up to date by singer Charli Brat has been redefined to “characterize a confident, independent and hedonistic attitude”, explains the dictionary. It is about “one of the most discussed words of 2024”, highlights Collins (link in English).

L’album Brat by British artist Charli XCX, released in June, is an ode to chaotic parties and a reflection of the questions of a generation. It set the tone for summer – even renamed “brat summer” – and the neon green of the album cover was used in numerous advertising campaigns.

“More than a resoundingly successful album, ‘brat’ is a cultural phenomenon that has resonated around the world, and ‘brat summer’ has established itself as an aesthetic and a way of life”estimates the dictionary.

The previously rather derogatory term has become a symbol of self-acceptance and one’s imperfections, in opposition to the girl’s trend. “clean” (clean on oneself). “The girl ‘Brat’ is a girl who is a little messy and who likes to party, who does things that are a little stupid sometimes… but who is also very honest”Charli XCX explained this summer on TikTok.

The word established itself in the American presidential campaign, taken up by Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, known as much as criticized for being spontaneous and good-natured. “Kamala is a brat”launched Charli XCX. The candidate’s campaign team was quick to adopt the “brat” color for its visuals on X.