Did they do this for the clicks?
rage bait (noun)
Origin: A compound of the words 'rage' (violent outburst of anger ) + 'bait' 'an attractive morsel of food,' on the model of the already existing clickbait.
Oxford says usage of the term has "increased threefold" over the past year.
They have this handy chart that shows the frequency of use since February 2023:
As for the critics who disagree with the choice of a compound word that is arguably two separate words:
We're not rage baiting you by choosing two words — though that would be in keeping with the meaning of the term!
The Oxford Word of the Year can be a singular word or expression, which our lexicographers think of as a single unit of meaning.
THAT DIDN'T STOP THE PUBLIC FROM FEELING RAGE-BAITED:
Others felt it necessary to engage in practical demonstration:
Take this as a reminder that many people on the internet aren't trying to inform you or hold civil debates with you.
They just want to make you mad, because they find it funny and it makes them money!
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