Trump, Musk & the Gold Play No One Sees Coming

Fort Knox mystery could send gold skyrocketing. Because the real danger isn't missing gold. It's decades of Fed manipulation collapsing overnight. Right now, I've uncovered 5 major gold predictions that could make this Fort Knox moment even bigger than people realize. One of them is already unfolding.

'Polarization' is Merriam-Webster’s 2024 word of the year

ANNA FURMAN
December 09, 2024

EMBARGOED UNTIL 12/9 at 12:01 a.m. ET. Photos prelinked XKS301-308 and video TK.

The results of the 2024 U.S. presidential election rattled the country and sent shockwaves across the world -- or were cause for celebration, depending on who you ask. Is it any surprise then that the Merriam-Webster word of the year is "polarization"?

"Polarization means division, but it's a very specific kind of division," said Peter Sokolowski, Merriam-Webster's editor at large, in an exclusive interview with The Associated Press ahead of Monday's announcement. "Polarization means that we are tending toward the extremes rather than toward the center."

The election was so divisive, many American voters went to the polls with a feeling that the opposing candidate was an existential threat to the nation. According to AP VoteCast, a survey of more than 120,000 voters, about 8 in 10 Kamala Harris voters were very or somewhat concerned that Donald Trump's views -- but not Harris' -- were too extreme, while about 7 in 10 Trump voters felt the same way about Harris -- but not Trump.

The Merriam-Webster entry for "polarization" reflects scientific and metaphorical definitions. It's most commonly used to mean "causing strong disagreement between opposing factions or groupings." Merriam-Webster, which logs 100 million pageviews a month on its site, chooses its word of the year based on data, tracking a rise in search and usage.

Last year's pick was "authentic." This year's comes as large swaths of the U.S. struggle to reach consensus on what is real.

"It's always been important to me that the dictionary serve as a kind of neutral and objective arbiter of meaning for everybody," Sokolowski said. "It's a kind of backstop for meaning in an era of fake news, alternative facts, whatever you want to say about the value of a word's meaning in the culture."

It's notable that "polarization" originated in the early 1800s -- and not during the Renaissance, as did most words with Latin roots about science, Sokolowski said. He called it a "pretty young word," in the scheme of the English language. "Polarized is a term that brings intensity to another word," he continued, most frequently used in the U.S. to describe race relations, politics and ideology.

"The basic job of the dictionary is to tell the truth about words," the Merriam-Webster editor continued. "We've had dictionaries of English for 420 years and it's only been in the last 20 years or so that we've actually known which words people look up."

"Polarization" extends beyond political connotations. It's used to highlight fresh cracks and deep rifts alike in pop culture, tech trends and other industries.

All the scrutiny over Taylor Swift's private jet usage? Polarizing. Beef between rappers Kendrick Lamar and Drake? Polarizing. The International Olympic Committee's decision to strip American gymnast Jordan Chiles of her bronze medal after the Paris Games? You guessed it: polarizing.

Even lighthearted memes -- like those making fun of Australian breakdancer Rachael "Raygun" Gunn's performance -- or the proliferation of look-alike contests, or who counts as a nepo baby proved polarizing.

Paradoxically though, people tend to see eye to eye on the word itself. Sokolowski cited its frequent use among people across the political spectrum, including commentators on Fox News, MSNBC and CNN.

"It's used by both sides," he said, "and in a little bit ironic twist to the word, it's something that actually everyone agrees on."

Rounding out Merriam-Webster's top 10 words of 2024:

Demure

TikToker Jools Lebron's 38-second video describing her workday makeup routine as "very demure, very mindful" lit up the summer with memes. The video has been viewed more than 50 million times, yielding "huge spikes" in lookups, Sokolowski said, and prompting many to learn it means reserved or modest.

Fortnight

Taylor Swift's song "Fortnight," featuring rapper Post Malone, undoubtedly spurred many searches for this word, which means two weeks. "Music can still send people to the dictionary," Sokolowski said.

Totality

The solar eclipse in April inspired awe and much travel. There are tens of millions of people who live along a narrow stretch from Mexico's Pacific coast to eastern Canada, otherwise known as the path of totality, where locals and travelers gazed skyward to see the moon fully blot out the sun. Generally, the word refers to a sum or aggregate amount -- or wholeness.

Resonate

"Texts developed by AI have a disproportionate percentage of use of the word 'resonate,'" Sokolowski said. This may be because the word, which means to affect or appeal to someone in a personal or emotional way, can add gravitas to writing. But, paradoxically, artificial intelligence "also betrays itself to be a robot because it's using that word too much."

Allision

The word was looked up 60 times more often than usual when, in March, a ship crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. "When you have one moving object into a fixed object, that's an allision, not a collision. You're showing that one of the two objects struck was not, in fact, in motion," Sokolowski said.

Weird

This summer on the TV news show "Morning Joe," Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz called Republican leaders "weird." It may have been what launched his national career, landing him as the Democratic vice presidential nominee. Though it's a word that people typically misspell -- is it "ei" or "ie"? -- and search for that reason, its rise in use was notable, Sokolowski said.

Cognitive

Whether the word was used to raise questions about President Joe Biden's debate performance or Trump's own age, it cropped up often. It refers to conscious intellectual activity -- such as thinking, reasoning, or remembering.

Pander

Pander was used widely in political commentary, Sokolowski said. "Conservative news outlets accused Kamala Harris of pandering to different groups, especially young voters, Black voters, gun rights supporters." Whereas Walz said Trump's visit to a McDonald's kitchen pandered to hourly wage workers. It means to say, do, or provide what someone -- such as an audience -- wants or demands even though it is not "good, proper, reasonable, etc."

Democracy

In 2003, Merriam-Webster decided to make "democracy" its first word of the year. Since then, the word -- which, of course, means a form of government in which the people elect representatives to make decisions, policies and laws -- is consistently one of the dictionary's most looked up. "There's a poignancy to that, that people are checking up on it," Sokolowski said. "Maybe the most hopeful thing that the curiosity of the public shows, is that they're paying attention."

___

Associated Press polling editor Amelia Thomson-Deveaux contributed reporting.

Continue Reading...

Popular

UK fears environmental damage after ships' collision in the North Sea

LONDON (AP) — U.K. officials were concerned about possible environmental damage Tuesday and looking for answers a day after a cargo ship off eastern England, setting both vessels ablaze.

Kroger Chairman and CEO resigns following investigation into personal conduct

Kroger Chairman and CEO Rodney McMullen has resigned after an internal investigation into his personal conduct.

Trump Announces Revenge on Biden - Ad

A former CIA insider just made a stunning prediction: Trump's revenge on Biden will end America's energy crisis forever? Getting in on a Trump-endorsed new energy tech could potentially turn $4K into $106,000 in just 6-12 months.

Mark Cuban Warns Elon Musk Is Making Trump's Job '1,000 Times Harder'

Elon Musk, who is leading the charge at the Department of Government Efficiency, has received a warning from Mark Cuban.

One Tech Tip: Getting a lot of unwanted phone calls? Here are ways to stop them

LONDON (AP) — Unwanted phone calls are out of control. Whether it's a robocall trying to sell you something or spam calls from scammers trying to rip you off, it's enough to make you want to stop answering your phone. So what can you do to stop them?

Texas to Adopt New Currency? - Ad

As you'll see, the political elite in Texas are backing this new currency to the hilt. One law allows businesses to accept this new currency, the same as if you were paying by cash or with a credit card. So, what is Texas' new currency? And what do you need to do immediately to prepare?

Meet the federal worker who went rogue: I hope that it lights a fire under people

NEW YORK (AP) — To billionaire Elon Musk and his cost-cutting team at the Department of Government Efficiency, Karen Ortiz may just be one of many faceless bureaucrats. But to some of her colleagues, she is giving a voice to those who feel they can't speak out.

Nvidia Is About to Shock the World: March 17th - Ad

Jeff Brown, the tech legend who picked shares of Nvidia in 2016 before they jumped by more than 22,000%, is warning everyone to... Mark this date on your calendar: March 17th! That's when Nvidia could help send shares of this Elon Musk supplier skyrocketing higher.

Apple's AI Crisis: Falling Behind In The AI Race?

Apple is grappling with an artificial intelligence (AI) crisis, as its rivals, including Amazon, surge ahead in the AI technology race.

Anti-DOGE protests at Tesla stores target Elon Musk's bottom line

BOSTON (AP) — Demonstrators gathered outside Tesla stores across the U.S. Saturday to protest the automaker's billionaire CEO, , and his push to slash government spending on behalf of President .

Mr. Nvidia: If There's 1 Stock That's the "Next Nvidia," This Is It - Ad

If there's any stock out there that's the 'next Nvidia,' this is it," says 40-year Wall Street veteran Louis Navellier. The exact same signals his system detected in Nvidia years ago are flashing again for this company. Once Wall Street catches on, he's predicting a stampede into the shares.

New Study: 50 Stocks Will Crash While 7 MAGA Stocks Will Soar - Ad

If you own any of these stocks -- directly or through mutual funds -- I want to encourage you to sell them before April 30th. I've compiled all 50 companies in my "MAGA Blacklist" report. Your retirement could depend on seeing this list.

Europe-Based UCB's Bimzelx Data Reveals Sustained Skin Clearance In Inflammatory Skin Disorders

UCB's Bimzelx shows sustained efficacy in psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa, with high skin clearance rates and improved symptoms over long-term trials.

Apple Delays Next-Gen Siri: 'It's Going To Take Us Longer Than We Thought' To Deliver AI Upgrades

Apple has delayed its next-gen Siri upgrade, citing the need for more development time, while internal reports suggest significant issues could push the AI-powered features back until iOS 20 or later.

Top Choice for Tech-Savvy Investors - Ad

Exploring the next wave of electric aviation stocks? This company is leading the charge with its innovative approach to electrification and strong industry ties.

Apple's AR Glasses Approach Aside, Google Makes Its Move On Eye-Tracking Tech With $115 Million AdHawk Acquisition: Report

As Apple reportedly reconsiders its AR glasses strategy, Google is moving forward with a $115 million acquisition of eye-tracking startup AdHawk to bolster its next-gen smart glasses efforts.

Trump Threatens Russia With Sanctions Amid Ukraine Conflict As He Pushes For Peace

President Donald Trump is contemplating imposing extensive sanctions and tariffs on Russia. This move aims to pressure Russia into a peace agreement in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

Man Who Predicted 2008 Crash Issues Dire Warning: "Get Out of Stocks Now" - Ad

Tech stocks are tanking--Nvidia down 30%, Tesla 50%--and ex-Wall Street CEO Dylan Jovine says it's about to get worse. He predicted the 2008 crash & made 700% gains while the market collapsed. Now, he's moving millions into a billionaire safe haven--and revealing his 4-step strategy. Don't wait!

Senate set to vote on approving Lori Chavez-DeRemer as Trump's labor secretary

The Senate is scheduled to vote Monday on whether to confirm as U.S. labor secretary, a Cabinet position that would put her in charge of enforcing federally mandated worker rights and protections at a time when the White House is trying to .

The $20 Trillion Secret of Room 3330 - Ad

Developed by the U.S. military 79 years ago, this controversial technology is about to change American life forever: Elon Musk has already funneled $6 billion to resurrect this covert project -- and the companies involved are minting 10,000 millionaires every week [Goldman Sachs].

Warren Buffett's Unconventional Career Advice: 'Don't Save Your Passion For Later, It's Like Saving Up Sex For Your Old Age'

In a speech at the University of Georgia, billionaire Warren Buffett once gave a piece of unconventional career advice. He compared the strategy of building a perfect resume to "saving up sex for your old age."

COPT Defense Properties Faces Risks: Analyst Sees Uncertainty In Leasing Process Amid Budget Cut Risks

JP Morgan analyst lowers COPT Defense Properties' price target to $29, citing risks from budget cuts, Space Command HQ uncertainty, and slow data center growth.

Wall St. Legend Shocks With "Next Nvidia" Prediction - Ad

When he recommended Microsoft at 38 cents... Google in 2005... and Nvidia before AI was mainstream, people called him crazy. Now they're calling him crazy again about this overlooked tech stock that's he's says could be "The Next Nvidia".

Tesla Out, Ford In: City Of Baltimore Goes 'In A Different Direction' Reversing EV Deal From 2024

Tesla is losing an EV city fleet deal in Baltimore to Ford. A look at what happened and how politics may have factored into the decision.

Mortgage lender Rocket Cos. to acquire real estate brokerage Redfin in deal valued at $1.75 billion

Mortgage lender Rocket Cos. has agreed to acquire online real estate brokerage Redfin in an all-stock deal valued at $1.75 billion.

Trump and Musk's Secret Plan to Redraw America's Borders - Ad

The world's two most powerful men are reclaiming thousands of acres of abandoned land... and it could make millions for those who understand this new map of America.

Elon Musk's DOGE Team Has Door Slammed On It At Africa Aid Agency Amid Raging Turf War

DOGE team members were denied entry to the U.S. African Development Foundation amid tensions over Trump's executive order targeting independent agencies.

Trump administration throws hundreds of affordable housing projects into limbo after contract cuts

The Trump administration has stalled at least $60 million in funding intended largely for affordable housing developments nationwide, throwing hundreds of projects into a precarious limbo, according to information and documents obtained by The Associated Press

Trump Could Make Surprising Tech Announcement Any Day - Ad

Elon Musk is heavily invested in a cutting-edge new technology. In fact, Musk has turned the new president on to this breakthrough. And President Trump could make an announcement any day that could spike the price of stocks in this sector.

Congressman Ditches Russell 2000 ETF To Buy Lithium, Uranium ETFs

Congress trading activity shows a new unusual transaction of a Senator buying uranium and lithium ETFs.

Trump-Announced Strategic Bitcoin Reserve To Allow Buying Additional BTC? Peter Schiff Doesn't Think So But Here's What The Order Says

President Donald Trump's executive order establishing a Strategic Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) Reserve did not have the expected bullish impact on Thursday, as the leading cryptocurrency dropped on the announcement.

Strategic Crypto Reserve -- Now Live - Ad

President Trump made good his promise to crypto enthusiasts - with his announcement of an official Strategic Crypto Reserve. This isn't just another crypto story--it's a game-changer for the U.S. dollar. A southern state is gaining major power, and you need to know what happens next.

Inflation eases to 2.4% in Europe, supporting likely central bank rate cut

FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — Inflation in Europe eased to an annual 2.4% in February, supporting the case for another interest rate cut from the European Central Bank but leaving open how far the central bank will go in lowering borrowing costs for an economy that's still struggling to show robust growth.

This Bear Market Blueprint Could Save Your Retirement - Ad

The crisis we warned about is here--sky-high interest rates, spiraling debt, and AI-driven job losses are reshaping the economy. Waiting for "normal" is a mistake. The rules of wealth have changed. Get my Bear Market Blueprint--a 4-step plan to protect & grow your money. Normally $297--FREE to our subscribers!

Salesforce Is Trading Below 200-DMA, But Goldman Sachs Sees Huge Stock Upside After Agentforce 2dx Unveil

Goldman Sachs analyst reiterates Buy on Salesforce with $400 PT. Positive on AI roadmap and growth potential, could yield early AI monetization.

Trending Now

Information, charts or examples are for illustration and educational purposes only and not for individualized investment management This message contains commercial elements, such as advertising. We only send these offers to those who have opted in to our newsletter. Past performance is not indicative of future results. For these reasons we strongly suggest trading in a DEMO/Simulated account. The information provided by us is for educational and informational purposes only. We make no representations or warranties concerning the products, practices or procedures of any company or entity mentioned or recommended and have not determined if the statements and opinions of the advertiser are accurate, correct or truthful. If you use, act upon or make decisions in reliance on information contained or any external source linked within it, you do so at your own peril and agree to hold us, our officers, directors, shareholders, affiliates and agents without fault.

Copyright trendadvisor.net
Privacy Policy | Terms of Service