Algospeak

How Social Media Is Transforming the Future of Language

De: Adam Aleksic

Narrado por: Adam Aleksic

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • From linguist Adam Aleksic, known as @etymologynerd on social media, comes a captivating exploration of how internet algorithms are transforming language and communication in unprecedented ways.

“Packed with fascinating facts, of-the-moment observations, and a sparkling voice, Algospeak is a gift to any word nerd. Deftly covering everything from emoji etymologies and trendbait to Taylor Swift fanilects... Adam Aleksic is the wise, yet accessible internet linguistics oracle we need.”—Amanda Montell, author of The Age of Magical Overthinking and Cultish

From “brainrot” memes and incel slang to the trend of adding “-core” to different influencer aesthetics, the internet has ushered in an unprecedented linguistic upheaval. We’re entering an entirely new era of etymology, heralded by the invisible forces driving social media algorithms. Thankfully, Algospeak is here to explain. As a professional linguist, Adam Aleksic understands the gravity of language and the way we use it: he knows the ways it has morphed and changed, how it reflects society, and how, in its everyday usage, we carry centuries of human history on our tongues. As a social media influencer, Aleksic is also intimately familiar with the internet’s reach and how social media impacts the way we engage with one another. New slang emerges and goes viral overnight. Accents are shaped or erased on YouTube. Grammatical rules, loopholes, and patterns surface and transform language as we know it. Our interactions, social norms, and habits—both online and in person—shift into something completely different.

As Aleksic uses original surveys, data, and internet archival research to usher us through this new linguistic landscape, he also illuminates how communication is changing in both familiar and unexpected ways. From our use of emojis to sentence structure to the ways younger generations talk about sex and death (see unalive in English and desvivirse in Spanish), we are in a brand-new world, one shaped by algorithms and technology. Algospeak is an energetic, astonishing journey into language, the internet, and what this intersection means for all of us.

©2025 Adam Aleksic (P)2025 Random House Audio

Reseñas de la Crítica

“Aleksic offers an insider’s view of a new oral tradition. . . . The fact that he’s chosen to explain this moment in the long, careful, linear form of a book is part of what makes Algospeak so valuable. Aleksic is a code-switcher for the algorithmic age, fluent in both the old language and the new.”—Sadie Dingfelder, The Washington Post

“Algospeak is a fascinating blend of etymology, psychology, cultural analysis and first-person perspective. The book acts as both a snapshot of our current, social media-imbued society and as an intellectual foundation for language developments to come. . . . Aleksic’s writing feels personable and knowledgeable as he translates his online presence offline, and in doing so, demonstrates his own claims about parasocial relationships and owning one’s audience.”—Rachel S. Hunt, Associated Press

“Packed with fascinating facts, of-the-moment observations, and a sparkling voice, Algospeak is a gift to any word nerd. Deftly covering everything from emoji etymologies and trendbait to Taylor Swift fanilects, incel slang, and the true origins of ‘cool’ words, Adam Aleksic is the wise, yet accessible internet linguistics oracle we need.”—Amanda Montell, New York Times bestselling author of The Age of Magical Overthinking and Cultish

One of the best books I've ever read

I'm a huge fan of The Etymology Nerd and had been eagerly awaiting this book for months. While linguistic evolution in the age of social media is not initially how I found him (it was originally foreign language connections), I still found myself intrigued. This book was a perfect reflection of Aleksic's content and presence on social media as a whole. It truly felt like just a super long version of one of his tiktoks, just without seeing his face. I really recommend this book to anyone studying linguistics, etymologic trends, the impacts of social media, or any fan of The Etymology Nerd in general!
(If Adam does actually read this, hi! Big fan! Please write another book!)

Like 5 hours of his Videos

I enjoyed the look through our modern digital landscape and words. I experience most new linguistic innovations through twitch streamers and YouTubers so it is very interesting to see a perspective from someone both knowledgeable and deeply embedded in the Short form Algo culture.

I would say though that the core thesis is rather belabored by the end of the book and I would have liked to see more focused word analysis than the focus on broader trends.

A great discussing linguistic development in regards to social media

As a member of gen Z I appreciate the authors explanation of the linguistic development of language as influenced by social media. I particularly enjoyed the chapter discussing Incell culture. As someone that ironically used Incell language unknowingly, I appreciate the detailed history and depth of Incell language. I love this book and will be recommending this book to others.

Bet. This book? Absolute W🔥

Had me like “yo we really speak in emojis now 😭💀”
It’s giving English class but with rizz.
Big brain stuff but make it scrollable.
10/10 would recommend to the group chat.

On God Illuminating

Love this book and so glad I followed him on Instagram. Valuable on many levels in particularly being an older millennial parent, but also incredibly insightful to the Zeitgeist of influence culture online.

Informative, Entertaining, and Concise

The book seamlessly weaves together many linguistic concepts into a easily digestible book for any willing to read it. The analysis on how the internet is influencing language change is equal parts intriguing and well thought out. Overall, the book is a must-read for anyone with even the slightest interest in etymology or internet culture.

Very informative

This book was very thought provoking. Many insightful nuggets of information that make me think twice about the evolution of language. I listened to the entire audiobook in practically one sitting, and will definitely return for future listens.

Absolute banger

Bro knows his sigma. Well researched and insightful, and delivery is on point. 0 complaints. Check out his socials, updoot & comment, give him money or an award or something.