"Brain rot" has been selected as the Oxford Word of the Year for 2024 after receiving 37,000 votes from the public.

This comes after words like Rizz and goblin mode were picked by the Oxford University Press in previous years.

However, many of those who are less internet-engrossed have been left puzzled by this phrase.

If you're wondering what "brain rot" means, here is everything you need to know.

What does Oxford Word of the Year 'brain rot' mean?

According to Oxford University Press, the word is used to describe the "supposed deterioration of a person's mental or intellectual state, especially viewed as a result of overconsumption of material (now particularly online content) considered to be trivial or unchallenging."

It is also used to describe content that is likely to lead to this deteriorated state.

First used all the way back in 1854 in a book titled Walden by American philosopher Henry David Thoreau, it has taken on a new meaning in the digital age.

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On TikTok, the term has found particular popularity with the hashtag for the phrase being used over half a million times.

Casper Grathwohl, president of Oxford Languages, said: "'Brain rot' speaks to one of the perceived dangers of virtual life, and how we are using our free time.

"It feels like a rightful next chapter in the cultural conversation about humanity and technology. It's not surprising that so many voters embraced the term, endorsing it as our choice this year."