English Reference

Word

trending

Phoneticstrend·ing, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈtɹɛndɪŋ/

UK/tɹˈɛndɪŋ/

Definitions

01popular on the internet

B1 · Intermediate Computing Informal

adj. popular or becoming very popular on social media or the internet right now.

adj. currently popular or widely discussed, particularly within digital platforms or social media networks.

“The new dance challenge is trending on TikTok this week.”

“The marketing team monitored which hashtags were trending to ensure their campaign aligned with current consumer interests.”

Usage

Often used as a predicative adjective after the verb 'to be'.

Antonyms

02moving in a direction

B2 · Upper Intermediate Academic

v. the act of moving or changing in a certain direction over time.

v. the present participle of 'trend', indicating a general direction in which something is developing or changing.

“House prices have been trending upwards for the last three years.”

“Economists noted that inflation was trending lower, suggesting that the recent policy changes were finally having the intended effect.”

Usage

Usually followed by an adverb of direction like 'upwards', 'downwards', or 'lower'.

Antonyms

03a current movement

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Computing Informal · Technical

n. a specific topic or style that is popular at the moment.

n. a specific instance of a trend or a popular topic within a digital ecosystem.

“The latest trending is all about sustainable fashion and recycling.”

“The software provides a real-time list of trendings across various geographic regions to help journalists identify breaking news.”

Teaching tip

Using 'trending' as a noun is less common than the adjective form; most speakers prefer to simply use the word 'trend'.

Synonyms

Domain

Internet

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

QR code

englishreference.com/q/trending

English Reference