Preparation for the Junior Word Final: Narrow down to three crucial terms.

The countdown is on for the revelation of the "Jugendwort des Jahres 2025", scheduled to be officially announced by the Langenscheidt Verlag on October 18, 2025, at the Frankfurt Book Fair. This annual event, which began in 2008, aims to capture the evolving language and culture of the youth.

Over the years, the Langenscheidt jury has recognised various words that encapsulate the zeitgeist of the youth. Words like "Smombie" (someone absorbed in their smartphone on the street), "Cringe" (second-hand embarrassment and awkward moments), "Aura" (a person's charisma), and "Swag" (coolness) have all been honoured.

This year, the jury has shortlisted several words, including "Gooning", a slang term that signifies hours of self-pleasure and excessive porn addiction, and "That's crazy", an all-purpose phrase used when speechless or not in the mood for a proper response. Another contender is "You checking?", a phrase used to ensure the listener understands the message.

However, the jury has emphasised that sexual terms are part of youth language, and "Gooning" is not just a slang term for continuous sexual stimulation without climax, but also a finalist for the Youth Word of the Year. They have warned that excessive masturbation can encourage dopamine addiction and lead to an unhealthy relationship with one's own sexuality.

The first Youth Word of the Year, "Gammelfleischparty" (an over-30 party), and "Babo" (boss) are also past winners. "Yolo" (you only live once) was another winning word in a past year.

The final announcement of the Youth Word of the Year 2025 will take place on October 18 at the Frankfurt Book Fair. The anticipation builds as we eagerly await the word that will represent the voice of the youth in 2025. Stay tuned for the big reveal!