Definition

Noun: A buzzword is a word or phrase, often from technical, managerial, or political jargon, that becomes very popular and fashionable for a period of time. Its meaning can become vague or exaggerated through overuse and repetition, as it is often employed more to impress or signal belonging to a group than to convey precise information.

Usage

A buzzword is used to describe trendy terminology. It is typically a noun and often carries a slightly critical or skeptical connotation, implying the term is used more for its trendy sound than its substantive meaning. - It is frequently found in business, technology, and policy contexts. - It often appears in discussions about innovation, strategy, or modern practices.

Examples

• In a business meeting: "The manager filled the presentation with buzzwords like 'synergy,' 'disruption,' and 'pivot,' but offered little concrete detail."
• In a news article: "'Sustainability' is more than just a corporate buzzword; it requires genuine action and commitment."
• In everyday critique: "He uses all the latest buzzwords, but I'm not sure he actually understands what they mean."

Advanced Usage

• Buzzword-compliant / Buzzword bingo: Terms used humorously to critique the overuse of jargon. "Buzzword-compliant" describes something designed to include all the current fashionable terms. "Buzzword bingo" is a game where listeners mark off buzzwords heard during a speech or meeting.
  • The new software platform is marketed as being completely buzzword-compliant, featuring AI, blockchain, and cloud-native architecture.
  • We played buzzword bingo during the conference call and someone won within ten minutes.

Variants and Related Words

• Buzzphrase (n): A longer phrase that functions as a buzzword.
  • "Blue-sky thinking" and "low-hanging fruit" are classic buzzphrases.
• Jargon (n): Specialized language used by a particular group, which may include buzzwords.
• Cant (n): Language specific to a time, place, or group, especially when used deceptively.

Synonyms

• Vogue word: A word that is currently fashionable.
• In-term: A word or phrase used within a specific group.
• Catchword: A word or phrase that becomes popular, often summarizing a concept.

Related Phrases

• To bandy about: To use a word or phrase frequently, often without deep understanding (this verb phrase is commonly used with 'buzzword').
  • Politicians often bandy about buzzwords like "freedom" and "security."

Idioms and Fixed Expressions

• A buzzword for...: Used to suggest that a term has become an empty label for something.
  • "Agile" has become a buzzword for any project that changes its mind frequently, losing its original methodological meaning.
• Full of buzzwords: Describes speech or writing overloaded with fashionable jargon.
  • The proposal was full of buzzwords and lacked a clear, actionable plan.

Noun

1. stock phrases that have become nonsense through endless repetition