user-generated content

American

[yoo-zer-jen-uh-rey-tid kon-tent] / ˈyu zərˌdʒɛn ə reɪ tɪd ˈkɒn tɛnt /

noun

original digital content created by users, such as product reviews, blogs, or social media posts, to be shared with or used by others, and which may drive traffic and sales for businesses. UGC

Etymology

Origin of user-generated content

First recorded in 2005–10

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In a statement, Allen said he planned to expand BuzzFeed further into free streaming video, as well as audio and user-generated content.

From MarketWatch • May 11, 2026

Any platform that publishes user-generated content — be that an email, a TikTok video or a restaurant review — would be open to lawsuits for publishing said content, opening the floodgates for litigation.

From Salon • Apr. 16, 2026

“AI search is inextricably linked to user-generated content, what people are saying about your brand,” says Andrew Warden, chief marketing officer at Semrush.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 22, 2026

The proceedings focus solely on app design, algorithms and personalization features, since US law grants platforms nearly complete immunity from liability over user-generated content.

From Barron's • Feb. 18, 2026

Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1996 provides legal immunity to online platforms for user-generated content.

From BBC • Jan. 14, 2026

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023