**In the vast, ever-expanding digital landscape, it's virtually impossible to spend more than a few minutes online without encountering one. From a quirky image with a relatable caption to a short, looping video clip, these ubiquitous pieces of content have become a fundamental language of the internet. If you've ever found yourself scrolling through your social media feed, paused, and thought, "What is that meme?" you're not alone. This question encapsulates a common curiosity about the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of these often-humorous, sometimes profound, digital phenomena.** This article aims to demystify the world of memes, providing a comprehensive guide to understanding what they are, where they come from, how they evolve, and why they hold such a powerful grip on our collective consciousness. We'll explore their academic roots, trace their journey through internet history, dissect their various forms, and even touch upon the individuals who master their creation. By the end, you'll not only know "what is that meme" but also appreciate the intricate cultural tapestry they weave. *** **Table of Contents** * [The Core Question: So, What Exactly Is a Meme?](#the-core-question-so-what-exactly-is-a-meme) * [From Genes to Culture: Dawkins' Original Concept](#from-genes-to-culture-dawkins-original-concept) * [The Internet's Embrace: How Memes Evolved](#the-internets-embrace-how-memes-evolved) * [The Anatomy of a Meme: Characteristics and Components](#the-anatomy-of-a-meme-characteristics-and-components) * [Visuals, Text, and Relatability: Key Ingredients](#visuals-text-and-relatability-key-ingredients) * [The Viral Spread: How Memes Propagate](#the-viral-spread-how-memes-propagate) * [A Brief History of Iconic Memes](#a-brief-history-of-iconic-memes) * [Early Pioneers: From Dancing Baby to All Your Base](#early-pioneers-from-dancing-baby-to-all-your-base) * [Modern Classics: Doge, Slender Man, and Beyond](#modern-classics-doge-slender-man-and-beyond) * [The Diverse World of Meme Types](#the-diverse-world-of-meme-types) * [Why Do Memes Resonate So Deeply?](#why-do-memes-resonate-so-deeply) * [The Role of Memes in Modern Communication and Society](#the-role-of-memes-in-modern-communication-and-society) * [Becoming a Meme Lord: Creating and Curating Memes](#becoming-a-meme-lord-creating-and-curating-memes) * [The Future of Memes: Constantly Evolving Culture](#the-future-of-memes-constantly-evolving-culture) *** ## The Core Question: So, What Exactly Is a Meme? To truly grasp "what is that meme," we must first define the term itself. At its most fundamental level, **a meme is an idea, behavior, or style that spreads by imitation within a culture and often carries symbolic meaning.** It's a cultural entity that replicates, evolves, and is passed from person to person, much like a gene, but through non-genetic means. This broad definition encompasses everything from fashion trends and popular catchphrases to architectural styles and, of course, the digital content we commonly refer to as internet memes today. Understanding this foundational concept is crucial to appreciating the depth and breadth of meme culture. ### From Genes to Culture: Dawkins' Original Concept The term ‘meme’ (from the Greek ‘mimema,’ meaning ‘imitated’) was introduced in 1976 by British evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins in his seminal work, *The Selfish Gene*. Dawkins coined the term to describe a unit of cultural information spread by imitation. In his words, a meme is simply an idea that is transmitted from person to person within a culture. He posited that just as genes replicate and evolve biologically, memes replicate and evolve culturally. This concept laid the groundwork for understanding how ideas and cultural phenomena propagate and gain prevalence. The “memes that are most successful in being copied and transmitted become the most prevalent within a culture,” says Britannica, highlighting the selective pressure applied to cultural information. ### The Internet's Embrace: How Memes Evolved While Dawkins' original concept was broad, the advent of the internet provided an unprecedented platform for memes to flourish and evolve at an astonishing pace. The digital age transformed the meme from an abstract cultural unit into a tangible, virally transmitted image embellished with text, a video, a GIF, or even just a block of text. This evolution saw the term "meme" become almost synonymous with "internet meme." Digital memes are viral content capable of monopolizing the attention of web users, demonstrating a replicability that depends heavily on their capacity to arouse emotion – be it humor, shock, or relatability. This rapid dissemination and adaptation are what make the question "what is that meme" so frequently asked in online spaces. ## The Anatomy of a Meme: Characteristics and Components When we ask "what is that meme," we're often referring to a specific piece of media that has gone viral. These internet memes typically share common characteristics that contribute to their widespread appeal and propagation. They are distinct from other forms of online content due to their inherent replicability and adaptability. ### Visuals, Text, and Relatability: Key Ingredients A meme is typically a photo or video, although sometimes it can be a block of text. It's an amusing or interesting item (such as a captioned picture or video) or genre of items that is spread widely online, especially through social media. Memes often use images, videos, or text to make a point or convey a shared experience. The most successful memes resonate with many people because they tap into universal emotions, shared cultural knowledge, or current events. While many are funny, memes can cover a range of emotions, ideas, and themes, from shock and disbelief to laughter. This relatability is a powerful engine for their spread, allowing individuals to connect over a shared understanding or inside joke. ### The Viral Spread: How Memes Propagate The propagation of internet memes bears a striking resemblance to the spread of infectious diseases. As some models illustrate, their pattern often shows an initial spike in popularity, followed by a gradual taper to obscurity. When a meme resonates with many people, it's spread via social platforms, texting, and email. This rapid, person-to-person transmission, often with slight variations, is a defining characteristic. Memes are unique in that they often evolve with each share; users might add new captions, alter images, or incorporate them into different contexts, leading to a dynamic and constantly changing cultural entity. This evolutionary aspect means that the "what is that meme" you saw yesterday might have a slightly different meaning or appearance today. ## A Brief History of Iconic Memes Understanding "what is that meme" also involves appreciating the rich history of these digital artifacts. From rudimentary animations to sophisticated video edits, memes have a lineage that stretches back to the early days of the internet. This evolution showcases how technology and human creativity have intertwined to create a unique form of communication. ### Early Pioneers: From Dancing Baby to All Your Base The concept of the internet meme predates widespread social media. One of the earliest examples often cited is the "Dancing Baby" (also known as "Baby Cha-Cha"), a 3D-rendered animation that went viral via email chains in 1996. This was a precursor to the visual, shareable content that would dominate later. Another notable early meme was "All Your Base Are Belong to Us," a grammatically incorrect phrase from a 1990s video game that became an inside joke among early internet users. These examples demonstrate that even before sophisticated platforms existed, the human desire to share humorous, relatable, or bizarre content was strong, setting the stage for the explosion of meme culture. ### Modern Classics: Doge, Slender Man, and Beyond As the internet matured, so did its memes. "Doge" is a prime example of a modern classic. "Doge" is internet slang for "dog," and a Doge meme generally consists of an image of a Shiba Inu covered in captions—most likely in Comic Sans font—that show the dog's inner monologue, often using broken English. This meme’s widespread appeal stemmed from its absurdity and versatility. Another significant phenomenon was "Slender Man," a fictional supernatural character that originated as a creepypasta internet meme in 2009. Unlike humorous memes, Slender Man showcased the internet's capacity to create and spread compelling, even unsettling, narratives. Know Your Meme, a dedicated website, has become an invaluable resource for documenting these internet phenomena, including viral videos, image macros, catchphrases, web celebs, and more, providing context for anyone wondering "what is that meme" they just saw. ## The Diverse World of Meme Types The question "what is that meme" can refer to a vast array of content, as memes come in many forms, each with its own characteristics and typical usage. This diversity is part of what makes meme culture so dynamic and engaging. * **Image Macros:** These are perhaps the most recognizable type, featuring an image with overlaid text, typically in an impact font. They often share pointed commentary on cultural symbols, social ideas, or current events. Examples include "Distracted Boyfriend" or "Success Kid." * **Reaction Memes:** Another popular type of meme, these typically feature a video clip or an image of a celebrity or character reacting to a situation in a humorous or exaggerated way. Reaction memes are often used to express emotions such as shock, disbelief, or laughter, making them incredibly versatile for online conversations. Think of the "Drakeposting" meme or "Confused Nick Young." * **Video Memes and GIFs:** Short, looping video clips or animated GIFs that convey a specific emotion, joke, or scenario. These can range from simple, funny moments to complex, edited sequences. "Rickrolling" and various dance challenges are classic examples. * **Text-Based Memes and Catchphrases:** Sometimes, a meme is purely textual, relying on a specific phrase or format that is replicated and adapted. "Keep Calm and Carry On" (though originating offline) and the "Is this a pigeon?" format are examples where the text itself carries the meme's essence. * **Meta Memes:** These are memes that make use of the word "meme" or "memes" within their own content, often poking fun at meme culture itself or the act of creating/sharing memes. They represent a self-aware layer within the meme ecosystem. * **Exploitable Memes:** These are templates that users can easily modify by adding their own text or images, allowing for endless variations on a single theme. This format directly encourages the evolution and replication central to the definition of a meme. ## Why Do Memes Resonate So Deeply? The enduring popularity of memes on social media is a testament to their power as a form of communication and cultural expression. But why are memes so popular? Why do they resonate so deeply with people across different demographics and cultures, making the question "what is that meme" a common inquiry? One key reason is their **relatability**. Memes often capture universal human experiences, emotions, or frustrations in a concise and humorous way. Whether it's the struggle of waking up on a Monday or the awkwardness of a social situation, memes provide a shared understanding that fosters connection. They allow people to feel seen and understood, creating a sense of community. Furthermore, memes are **highly adaptable and versatile**. They can be easily modified to fit different contexts, allowing for endless variations and interpretations. This adaptability ensures their longevity and relevance, as they can quickly evolve to reflect new trends, current events, or inside jokes within specific communities. This constant evolution means that even if you know "what is that meme" in its original form, you might encounter new, hilarious iterations. Their **brevity and visual nature** also contribute to their appeal. In an age of information overload, memes offer a quick, digestible burst of content that can convey complex ideas or emotions without requiring extensive reading. They are easily consumed and shared, making them perfect for fast-paced online environments. Memes are often based on popular culture, such as movies, TV shows, and music, which further enhances their relatability and provides a common ground for shared humor. ## The Role of Memes in Modern Communication and Society Memes have transcended mere entertainment; they have become a cornerstone of social media culture and a significant force in modern communication. Their impact is felt across various spheres, from casual conversations to political discourse. In everyday communication, memes serve as a **shorthand for complex emotions or ideas**. Instead of typing out a lengthy explanation, a single reaction meme can convey shock, exasperation, or joy instantly. This efficiency makes online interactions more dynamic and expressive. They foster a sense of belonging, creating inside jokes and shared cultural references within groups, from close friends to vast online communities. Beyond personal interactions, memes play a crucial role in **social commentary and political discourse**. A meme can virally transmit pointed commentary on current events, social ideas, or cultural symbols. They can simplify complex issues, often with humor, making them accessible to a wider audience. This can be a double-edged sword: while memes can raise awareness and mobilize communities, they can also spread misinformation or oversimplify nuanced topics. Nevertheless, their ability to quickly disseminate messages and provoke thought makes them a powerful tool in the public sphere. When a political meme goes viral, everyone asks "what is that meme" and what it signifies. Memes also contribute to the **democratization of content creation**. With online tools and accessible platforms, anyone can create and share a meme, bypassing traditional media gatekeepers. This has led to a vibrant, user-generated cultural landscape where creativity flourishes, and new ideas can emerge from unexpected places. ## Becoming a Meme Lord: Creating and Curating Memes The rise of meme culture has also given birth to new roles and titles within the internet community. If you've used the internet for more than a few days, you've probably seen a meme, and perhaps even wondered about the creators behind the most viral ones. This leads to the concept of a "meme lord" or "meme master." A "meme lord" is an internet slang term used to refer to someone who shows a strong passion for memes. The alternate term "meme master" is often used as a synonym, with "meme master" first being used on March 2nd, 2006, by user duffergeek on his blog. These individuals are not just consumers of memes; they are often skilled at identifying emerging trends, crafting original content, or expertly curating existing memes to achieve maximum impact. For those aspiring to create their own viral content, understanding "what is that meme" and what makes it successful is key. Online tools and tips abound for making your own memes. The process typically involves: 1. **Identifying a relatable concept:** What shared experience, emotion, or current event can you tap into? 2. **Choosing the right visual/audio:** A compelling image, video, or sound clip is crucial. 3. **Crafting concise and witty text:** The caption is often what delivers the punchline or the relatable insight. 4. **Timeliness:** Often, the most successful memes capitalize on recent events or trending topics. 5. **Simplicity and adaptability:** The easier it is for others to understand and adapt, the more likely it is to spread. The best meme lords possess an intuitive understanding of internet culture and a knack for humor, timing, and visual storytelling. They are the architects of much of the viral content that prompts us to ask "what is that meme?" ## The Future of Memes: Constantly Evolving Culture Meme culture is constantly evolving, and the future of memes is unpredictable. Just as the "Dancing Baby" gave way to image macros, and image macros evolved into sophisticated video edits and AI-generated content, the landscape of memes continues to shift. Some of the internet’s most popular meme creators have thoughts on where it might be headed, often pointing towards greater interactivity, personalization, and integration with emerging technologies. We can anticipate several trends shaping the future of memes: * **Increased Personalization:** As AI and machine learning advance, memes might become even more tailored to individual user preferences and data, leading to hyper-specific content that resonates deeply with niche audiences. * **Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Memes:** The integration of memes into immersive digital environments could open up entirely new forms of interactive and spatial meme experiences. Imagine AR filters that turn your surroundings into a meme. * **AI-Generated Memes:** While human creativity will likely remain central, AI tools are already capable of generating surprisingly coherent and humorous memes, potentially leading to an explosion of content and new challenges in distinguishing human-made from machine-made humor. * **Deeper Integration with Real-World Events:** Memes will continue to be a primary vehicle for instant commentary on global events, politics, and pop culture, often shaping public opinion and discourse at an unprecedented speed. * **Ephemeral Memes:** With the rise of platforms focused on disappearing content, memes might become even more fleeting, emphasizing their immediate impact and rapid obsolescence, further accelerating the cycle of "what is that meme" to "that was that meme." Regardless of the technological advancements, the core essence of a meme – an idea that spreads by imitation, carrying symbolic meaning and reflecting shared cultural experiences – will likely remain. The formats may change, but the human desire to connect, to laugh, and to comment on the world around us through shared cultural units will ensure that memes continue to be a vibrant and essential part of our digital lives. *** In conclusion, "what is that meme" is more than just a casual question; it's an entry point into understanding a complex, dynamic, and incredibly influential aspect of modern culture. From Richard Dawkins' original academic concept of a cultural unit to the ubiquitous humorous images and videos that flood our social media feeds, memes have evolved into a powerful and versatile form of communication. They allow us to share ideas, express emotions, comment on society, and connect with others in ways that traditional media often cannot. We've explored their origins, dissected their characteristics, traced their history through iconic examples like the Dancing Baby and Doge, and categorized their diverse types. We've also delved into why they resonate so deeply, their role in contemporary society, and how individuals become "meme lords" by mastering their creation and curation. The future promises even more innovative and immersive forms of memes, ensuring their continued relevance in our digital lives. So, the next time you encounter a piece of content that makes you pause and wonder, "what is that meme?", remember that you're not just looking at a funny picture or video. You're witnessing a cultural entity in action – replicating, evolving, and shaping the very fabric of our shared online experience. We encourage you to share your favorite meme discoveries in the comments below or explore more of our articles on internet culture!
