In a year marked by viral sensations and social media crazes, one word has unexpectedly captured the zeitgeist of 2024: “manifest.” The term, which means to bring something into existence through intention and belief, has been named the Cambridge Dictionary’s Word of the Year after an unprecedented surge in popularity. But what’s behind this linguistic phenomenon? According to insiders, it’s all thanks to the star power of celebrities like Dua Lipa and Simone Biles.
From Ancient Origins to Celebrity Endorsements
While “manifest” may seem like a modern buzzword, its roots actually trace back centuries. The term first appeared in English around the 1300s, derived from Latin and French origins. Over time, it evolved to encompass meanings like “clear” or “obvious,” as well as the act of making something apparent. Even literary giants like Chaucer and Shakespeare employed the word in their works, cementing its place in the English lexicon.
However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that “manifest” began to take on its current meaning of willing dreams into reality. This usage emerged in spiritualist circles but remained relatively niche—that is, until a new generation of celebrities began singing its praises.
Dua Lipa’s Manifesto for Success
Leading the charge is pop sensation Dua Lipa, who credits manifesting for her meteoric rise to fame. The British singer, who headlined Glastonbury in June, has been vocal about her belief in the power of positive thinking.
“Manifesting is a big thing for me,” Lipa revealed in a recent interview. “I stand very firmly in the belief of putting things into the world. Subconsciously, you just work towards them. Nothing’s ever too big.”
Lipa’s endorsement of manifesting has resonated with fans around the globe, many of whom have taken to social media to share their own experiences with the practice. Her influence has been so profound that some have even dubbed her the “Queen of Manifestation.”
Simone Biles: Manifesting Gold
Gymnast Simone Biles, another prominent figure in the manifesting movement, has also been credited with popularizing the term. The seven-time Olympic medalist has spoken openly about visualizing her success from a young age, long before her historic victories.
Biles’ story has inspired countless aspiring athletes to adopt manifesting techniques in pursuit of their own dreams. Her impact on the sports world cannot be overstated, with many now viewing visualization as an essential tool for peak performance.
The Pandemic’s Role in Manifesting’s Rise
While celebrity endorsements have undoubtedly fueled the manifesting craze, experts also point to the COVID-19 pandemic as a significant factor in its popularity. As lockdowns forced people to confront uncertainty and isolation, many turned to manifesting as a means of regaining control over their lives.
Social media platforms, particularly TikTok, became breeding grounds for manifesting content during this period. Videos touting techniques like the “3-6-9 method” garnered billions of views, as users sought solace and empowerment amidst the chaos.
The Science Behind Manifesting
Despite its popularity, manifesting remains a controversial topic in scientific circles. Some experts, like Cambridge University social psychologist Sander van der Linden, caution against conflating the practice with reality.
“Manifesting is what psychologists call ‘magical thinking’ or the general illusion that specific mental rituals can change the world around us,” van der Linden explains. “This procedure promotes obsessive and compulsive behavior with no discernible benefits.”
– Professor Sander van der Linden, Cambridge University
While van der Linden acknowledges the value of positive thinking and goal-setting, he emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between these healthy practices and the pseudoscience of “moving reality with your mind.”
Manifesting’s Meaning in 2024
As “manifest” continues its reign as 2024’s word of the year, its impact on popular culture shows no signs of waning. The term has become ubiquitous in everyday conversations, with people from all walks of life embracing its message of self-empowerment and positivity.
Whether viewed as a legitimate tool for personal growth or a harmless social media trend, there’s no denying that manifesting has captured the collective imagination. As we navigate an increasingly uncertain world, perhaps the allure of willing our dreams into existence is more powerful than ever.
Only time will tell if manifesting’s influence will endure beyond 2024, but one thing is clear: this ancient word has found new life in the digital age, thanks in no small part to the star power of its celebrity advocates. As we look to the future, it seems likely that the art of manifestation will continue to shape our language, our culture, and perhaps even our realities.
Social media platforms, particularly TikTok, became breeding grounds for manifesting content during this period. Videos touting techniques like the “3-6-9 method” garnered billions of views, as users sought solace and empowerment amidst the chaos.
The Science Behind Manifesting
Despite its popularity, manifesting remains a controversial topic in scientific circles. Some experts, like Cambridge University social psychologist Sander van der Linden, caution against conflating the practice with reality.
“Manifesting is what psychologists call ‘magical thinking’ or the general illusion that specific mental rituals can change the world around us,” van der Linden explains. “This procedure promotes obsessive and compulsive behavior with no discernible benefits.”
– Professor Sander van der Linden, Cambridge University
While van der Linden acknowledges the value of positive thinking and goal-setting, he emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between these healthy practices and the pseudoscience of “moving reality with your mind.”
Manifesting’s Meaning in 2024
As “manifest” continues its reign as 2024’s word of the year, its impact on popular culture shows no signs of waning. The term has become ubiquitous in everyday conversations, with people from all walks of life embracing its message of self-empowerment and positivity.
Whether viewed as a legitimate tool for personal growth or a harmless social media trend, there’s no denying that manifesting has captured the collective imagination. As we navigate an increasingly uncertain world, perhaps the allure of willing our dreams into existence is more powerful than ever.
Only time will tell if manifesting’s influence will endure beyond 2024, but one thing is clear: this ancient word has found new life in the digital age, thanks in no small part to the star power of its celebrity advocates. As we look to the future, it seems likely that the art of manifestation will continue to shape our language, our culture, and perhaps even our realities.
