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MEME meaning and definition

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What Does "Meme" Mean?

In today's digital age, the term "meme" has become a ubiquitous part of our online culture. But have you ever stopped to think about what this word really means?

The origins of the term "meme" date back to 1976 when evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins coined the term in his book "The Selfish Gene." Dawkins proposed that memes, like genes, are units of cultural transmission that can replicate and evolve over time. He used the concept of memes to explain how ideas, behaviors, and styles could spread from person to person within a culture.

In its original context, a meme referred to an idea or behavior that was transmitted and replicated through a population of people. This could be anything from a joke or a song to a fashion trend or a social practice.

Fast forward to the 21st century, and the term "meme" has taken on a whole new meaning in the context of the internet. In online culture, a meme is typically an image, video, or piece of text that is copied and spread rapidly through online communities, often with humorous or ironic intent.

These internet memes can take many forms, from funny images with captions (known as "image macros") to short videos, GIFs, or even pieces of music. Memes are often used to express a particular idea or sentiment, poke fun at current events or cultural phenomena, or simply provide entertainment and social bonding among online communities.

Some examples of popular internet memes include:

  • Grumpy Cat: A grumpy-looking cat with a permanent scowl that has become a symbol of displeasure.
  • Distracted Boyfriend: A stock photo of a man looking at another woman while his girlfriend looks on in the background, used to represent situations where someone is distracted or uninterested.

The power of memes lies in their ability to transcend linguistic and cultural boundaries. Memes can be created by anyone with an internet connection, and they can spread rapidly across different online platforms, from social media to forums and chat rooms.

So what does "meme" mean? In the context of the internet, it refers to a unit of cultural transmission that is designed to be humorous, relatable, or thought-provoking. Memes are a unique form of digital storytelling that allow people to connect with each other through shared experiences and common interests.

In conclusion, while the term "meme" has its roots in evolutionary biology, it has taken on a whole new meaning in the context of online culture. Memes have become a powerful tool for social expression, creativity, and communication, and they continue to shape the way we interact with each other online.

So the next time you come across a funny image or video that makes you LOL, remember: it's not just a joke – it's a meme!

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