Memes, derived from the Greek word "mimeme" meaning "imitated thing," refer to cultural ideas, symbols, or practices that are widely shared and spread rapidly across individuals within a society through various media platforms. In the modern context, memes are typically humorous or satirical images, videos, or phrases that encapsulate a specific moment, idea, or trend, and are often accompanied by clever captions or annotations.
These internet memes often thrive on social media platforms and websites, gaining popularity and recognition as they are shared, remixed, and adapted by users. They have become a prevalent form of communication, serving as a cultural shorthand that facilitates connections, shared experiences, and inside jokes amongst online communities.
Memes often rely on hindsight, satire, or sarcasm to comment on societal, political, or cultural aspects, and can act as a means of social critique or critique of specific individuals or events. They serve as a vehicle for humor, irony, and self-expression, enabling people to engage in collective participation and contribute to ongoing conversations.
Due to their ephemeral nature, memes can have a short lifespan, with new ones constantly emerging and outdated ones fading away. Their virality and widespread appeal have made them an integral part of contemporary popular culture, shaping linguistic trends, referencing specific pop culture phenomena, and reflecting the ever-evolving nature of internet humor.
