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

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

From BBC • Jan. 14, 2026

Roblox is driven by user-generated content, which means its gaming lineup is maturing along with users.

From Barron's • Nov. 26, 2025

The company has gained traction outside the U.S. as it ramps up its artificial-intelligence-driven translation efforts, adding capabilities to translate its user-generated content to Japanese, Turkish and Polish during the quarter, Vollero said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 30, 2025

"Social evidence or proof, in the form of user-generated content and glowing reviews, accelerates the spread of the dupe economy, creating a cycle where participants feel empowered to seek out and share high-quality, less-expensive products."

From Salon • Jan. 14, 2025

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