The list is peppered with words embraced by corporate culture, Nunberg says.

5. Passion/passionate, an intense devotion to an idea, thing or endeavor

The popularity of this word results from the "bloating of the language of corporate life," Nunberg says. "People are expected to manifest a kind of emotional attachment and investment in their jobs that wasn't required back when jobs were a lot more secure."

6. Superfood, a nonscientific word for food with extremely high nutritional benefits

It's a term which Nunberg says shows how influential the explosion of marketing has become in our culture.

Another food word on the list:

7. Boneless wings, small hand-held pieces of processed chicken without bones which are often enjoyed in sports bars

"Can we just call them chicken (pieces)?" pleaded John McNamara, of Lansing, Michigan, who nominated the word.

8. Trending, currently popular

"There are lots of ways to say it, but none in as few as eight letters," jokes Nunberg. "It's a little trendy."

Here's one that Pink says has lost its meaning:

9. Bucket list, a personal list of experiences people desire before they die, also known as "kicking the bucket"

This one has got to go, says Pink. There was a time when it could mean something like climbing a mountain, he explains. Now a bucket list can include less-lofty pursuits -- like catching a two-for-one sale at the mall.

Rounding out the rest of the dozen: spoiler alert, guru and double down.

Words and phrases that almost made the list -- but failed: "wheelhouse," "skill set."

Also, Pink singled out an annoying phrase that fell under particular consideration.

That phrase was, "I know, right."

Says Pink, "That one came close."

F-word and A-word

The F-word and the A-word are often nominated for the list, but Pink says offensive words aren't considered. "We try to keep it lighthearted."