Psychologists have observed how the rise of one-sided parasocial relationships has redefined fandom and celebrity with many feeling invested in Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce announcing their engagement View 3 Images Taylor and Travis are engaged (Image: Getty Images)

Cambridge Dictionary has revealed ‘parasocial’ as its word of the year for 2025, defined as involving a connection someone feels between themselves and a famous person they do not know. ‌

Psychologists have observed how the rise of one-sided parasocial relationships has redefined fandom and celebrity. ‌

For instance, when pop star Taylor Swift and American footballer Travis Kelce announced their engagement earlier this year, many fans felt a strong connection to them despite most not having met them. ‌

The

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