Last Updated on April 23, 2026
Each year, from thousands of public nominations, the Academy of the Hebrew Language selects one standout word that captures the spirit of the times. Shaped by current events, cultural shifts, and everyday conversations, this chosen word reflects not only how we speak, but how we think and feel. More than just a linguistic highlight, it offers a snapshot of the year in a single, powerful expression—revealing what resonated most across society.
2024
Hostages – khatufim – חטופים
2023
The Academy did not offer an official word of the year due to the intense national shock.
2022
Sinkhole – bolan – בולען
Selected following a year featuring several high-profile sinkholes in Israel.
2021
Lunacy – tirlul – טירלול
Nine words stood out but “lunacy” won the vote. Second place went to hisun – חיסון – vaccine. Next in place was tashnit – תשנית – mutation followed with dahaf – דחף, or booster. Other nominations included; aklim (climate), medaliyat zahav (gold medal), pkakim (traffic jams), shigra (routine) and shinuy (change)
2020
Throat swab – matosh – מטוש
Reflecting the Covid-19 pandemic
- Hebrew acronyms and abbreviations
- Confusing Hebrew words
- Free word sheets with Hebrew, English & transliterations, by topic
- Must-know Hebrew slang
