quantum apocalypse noun [S]
UK /ˌkwɒn.təm əˈpɒk.ə.lɪps/ US /ˌkwɑːn.t̬əm əˈpɑː.kə.lɪps/
the situation where extremely powerful computers can access all encrypted data very quickly and easily, making all hidden information public
Current computers would take years, decades and even centuries to crack the encryption codes created by today’s machines, but the fact that a quantum computer could theoretically do this in “just seconds” poses an enormous cybersecurity risk. The notion of all the world’s most encrypted files – from WhatsApp messages to online banking to government data – suddenly being broken into thanks to the advent of quantum computing is known as the “quantum apocalypse”.
[theweek.co.uk, 1 February 2022]
splinternet noun [S]
UK /ˈsplɪn.tə.net/ US /ˈsplɪn.t̬ɚ.net/
the idea that there is, or could be, different versions of the internet rather than one global version, usually because the governments of some countries have blocked or restricted parts of its content
Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine is accelerating a technological isolation in Russia that doesn’t inflict the immediate pain of frozen bank accounts or skyrocketing prices, but could fundamentally change the way that Russians get their information and connect — or fail to connect — with the rest of the world. It’s bringing Putin’s Russia many steps closer to a so-called splinternet in which the West and Russia operate in different online spheres.
[politico.com, 4 March 2022]
TikTot noun [C]
UK /ˈtɪk.tɒt/ US /ˈtɪk.tɑːt/
a young child who uses the social media platform TikTok
A third of children aged between five and seven have a social media profile despite being under the minimum age requirement, a new study suggests. Analysis from Ofcom shows that TikTok is the most popular platform among the youngest users, who have been nicknamed TikTots. Britain’s communications watchdog found 16% of children in the UK aged three and four are already using the platform.
[uk.news.yahoo.com, 30 March 2022]
Quite interesting to know why and when a new English expressions is used. I learn a lot with your blog. Thanks. Cécile From Québec Canada
splinternet
I feel it is wrong to add new words just because they are used a great deal. Society is very much like a bunch of sheep these days. especially because of social media. Folks think it is “clever” to use the buzz words that some clever clogs has dreamt up. An old example being “showcasing” something/one. What is wrong with show off/show the merits of/ or just show? A showcase is a piece of furniture….
I also call it a display case – in case “show” is too broad a word
[they are both nouns and verbs].
The Collins dictionary seems to be very liberal in soliciting new words from its users and potential users.
I love the expression ‘clever clogs’ that you’ve used here. Was it also dreamt up at some point?
From the ones you mentioned I should say that “quantum apocalypse” is the only that makes sense.