Doge can refer to various interpretations, depending on the context in which it is used. Historically, "doge" denotes the chief magistrate in the former Republics of Venice and Genoa, particularly during the medieval and Renaissance periods. The doge served as the elected head of state and government, often embodying symbols of authority and power.
However, in more contemporary times, "doge" has taken on a different connotation. Originating from an internet meme in 2013 featuring a Shiba Inu dog, the term "doge" has become synonymous with a specific style of comedic image or video captioning. These humorous portrayals typically highlight the dog's wide-eyed, perplexed expression, accompanied by broken English phrases written in Comic Sans font, particularly using multi-colored Comic Sans letters.
The doge meme's popularity has ultimately led to the term's broader usage on the internet. Today, "doge" can also refer to any image that follows the format made popular by the original Shiba Inu meme, even if it features a different subject. Furthermore, "doge" has evolved to embody a lighthearted and comedic tone, often associated with internet culture, memes, and the internet's constant shifting trends.
Thus, the definition of "doge" encompasses both its historical meaning as a political figure and its modern understanding as a humorous internet meme and cultural symbol.
