Asexual, spoiler and streamer: here are the new words in the 2026 dictionary

The digital revolution is even reflected in the pages of the dictionary. Like every year, the new words in the Petit Larousse 2026 illustrate new French linguistic usages. Like every year, terms related to new technologies are occupying a growing place.

Bot, cloud and crypto

Among the newcomers to the world of computing, we find:

• Streamer, which refers to a person who broadcasts video content live, often on platforms like Twitch or YouTube.
• Bot: Abbreviation for “robot”, which refers to an automated computer program that interacts with users, particularly on social networks or in video games.
• Cloud which has become established with the generalization of online storage and services, without ever succeeding in imposing its French translation.
• Cryptocurrency, which is now part of everyday vocabulary.
• NFT, the acronym for “Non Fungible Token“, which designates a unique digital token, specifically used in digital art to certify ownership of a virtual object.
• Spoiler, the Anglicism of divulgâcher, which means to reveal a key element of a plot, particularly in series, films or video games.

These words, mostly from English, and once reserved for a restricted community, are today understood and used by a wide audience. Proof, if any were needed, that our society is increasingly connected. Technology isn't the only thing affected, either, as social media is also getting a significant batch of additions to the 2026 dictionary.

• DM, short for “Direct Message“, a private message sent on social media.
• Viral, to refer to content that spreads very quickly on the internet.
• Like, no need to explain.
• Troll, to refer to a person who seeks to provoke or disrupt online discussions.

Social and identity developments continue

Beyond technology, the Petit Larousse 2026 also includes terms that reflect the social and identity developments of our time. Whereas the dictionary of the Académie française still describes heterosexuality as the only natural sexuality, the new dictionary now includes "Asexual," which designates a person who does not experience sexual attraction. We also find:

• Imposter syndrome, a now common expression to describe the feeling of illegitimacy felt in the professional or academic world.
• Non-binary which designates a person whose gender identity does not correspond exclusively to the categories “man” or “woman”.
• Inclusive, which describes an approach, language or policy that takes diversity and equality into account.

Le Petit Larousse illustré 2026 gives pride of place to words derived from technology, digital technology, and social transformations. More than ever, the French language is connected to its time and attentive to new uses. An evolution that promises to make the dictionary ever more useful, modern, and representative of today's society.