A meme is a term that describes a cultural or social phenomenon that spreads rapidly from person to person within a society. It can refer to images, videos, catchphrases, or ideas that gain popularity through internet platforms, such as social media, websites, or forums. Memes often reflect shared experiences, humor, or specific references that resonate with a wide audience.
Typically, memes take the form of an image, often accompanied by a clever or humorous caption. These images are edited, modified, or combined with other elements to create variations of the original meme, which contributes to the viral nature of their distribution. Memes have become an integral part of online culture, serving as a means of expressing ideas, emotions, or opinions in a relatable and easily shareable format.
Memes have the power to shape and reflect societal trends and attitudes, serving as a medium for social and political commentary. They possess the ability to transcend linguistic and cultural barriers, as they can be easily shared and understood across different nations and languages.
The term "meme" was first coined by Richard Dawkins in his 1976 book "The Selfish Gene," where he defined it as an idea or behavior that is transmitted from person to person through imitation. However, in contemporary usage, the term predominantly refers to the internet culture phenomenon, where memes play a significant role in shaping modern communication and digital expression.
