Television linguist Susie Dent is advocating for the word "meekend" to be recognized in the dictionary, describing it as a term that captures the experience of spending an entire weekend alone, engaging in activities solely by one’s own choice. Dent, known for her role on the television program Countdown, suggests the word reflects a contemporary lifestyle trend similar to how "staycation" and "brunch" have become widely adopted in everyday language.
According to Dent, the concept of deliberately reserving time for oneself holds increasing significance in modern life. She argued that having a specific term for a solo weekend would encourage more people to prioritize personal time. “There’s not currently a word that fully encapsulates this,” she said, emphasizing the need for "meekend" to gain official dictionary recognition.
A survey conducted by Hub by Premier Inn involving 2,000 adults revealed that 76% were unfamiliar with the term "meekend." However, once the meaning was explained, 73% responded positively to the idea of a solo weekend. Additionally, about 25% of respondents expressed an intention to start using the word in their everyday vocabulary.
The growing interest in "meekend" reflects broader societal shifts toward self-care and mindfulness, with more individuals seeking opportunities to disconnect from social obligations and focus on their own needs. Proponents argue that linguistic acknowledgment of such practices can reinforce their value in a fast-paced world.
