buzzword

noun

buzz·​word ˈbəz-ˌwərd How to pronounce buzzword (audio)
1
: an important-sounding usually technical word or phrase often of little meaning used chiefly to impress laymen
2
: a voguish word or phrase

called also buzz phrase

Examples of buzzword in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Fun and structure are the buzzwords. Rhitu Chatterjee, NPR, 19 June 2026 And now the buzzword has landed on your top shelf, offering the same core promise—a longer, healthier stretch of time—but for your face instead of your body. Deanna Pai, Vogue, 18 June 2026 The combination – the buzzwords drilled down by a drill sergeant – coalesced into a team that was as mentally tough as it was talented. Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 15 June 2026 Skin longevity has moved from buzzword to research category, and the latest evidence is reshaping what dermatologists recommend for women who want to age well. Allison Palmer updated June 13, Miami Herald, 13 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for buzzword

Word History

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of buzzword was in 1946

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Buzzword.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/buzzword. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on buzzword

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster