Overview
- Cambridge defined the term as a felt connection to a public figure, fictional character, or artificial intelligence despite no real-life relationship.
- Dictionary lookup data showed sharp recent spikes for the word, including a surge after Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce announced their engagement.
- Editor Colin McIntosh said the selection captures the 2025 zeitgeist and reflects a shift from an academic term to mainstream usage.
- The concept traces to 1956 sociology research on one-sided bonds with on-screen personalities and has expanded with social media and influencers.
- Experts warned of one-sided loyalty and potential harm, with coverage noting AI’s role and surveys reporting 72% of U.S. teens trying AI companions and 28% of adults reporting romantic or intimate AI ties.