The term “Karen” has gained popularity in online communities, especially on social media platforms that are mainly used by internet users. It is frequently used in memes, discussions, and jokes to express certain behaviors shown by individuals, which refer more to a bad attitude, especially women.
Even though it has been widely used by a specific group or demographic, many people do not yet know what the term “Karen” is, where it comes from, what its characteristics are, and who and when it is used. Okay, here’s everything you can know about “Karen!”
What Does Karen Mean in Slang?
The term “Karen” in slang typically refers to stereotypically demanding and entitled middle-aged white women, who are often depicted as rude, self-centered, and prone to complaining. It is actually an action that is often considered racist since it is considered that white women can use their privileges to demand things in their own way and get more convenience than other racial colors.
Although everyone can really use this term, its usage is not restricted to a specific group or demographic. Of course, individuals from various identities and backgrounds can use the term to criticize behavior they consider obnoxious or entitled.
What Are the Characteristics of an Individual with the Stereotype of Karen?
The stereotype of “Karen” has been targeted at middle-aged white women who are considered annoying, angry, demanding, entitled to get everything they want, and even rude. Since Karen refers to a stereotype of an aged white woman and is also used to call out older adults who have narrow-minded viewpoints, there may be potential for sexism, offense, or ageism.
Although the current use of the term Karen has become widespread and continues to grow, this does not erase its original reference to perpetuating stereotypes of middle-aged white women.
In memes, the women with the stereotype of Karen are generally described as having a blonde bob and becoming anti-vaxxers. Behaviorally, they show off their perceived superiority in social situations; they often make unreasonable demands; they speak condescendingly to service workers; and they often ask to speak to retail and restaurant managers to complain or press charges.
In 2020, there was a viral video showing a white woman engaging in an act considered racist. From then on, the term Karen spread as a label used to describe white women who were considered racists with bad attitudes.
Where Does the Term Karen Come From?
The origin of the term “Karen” as slang was unclear until its widespread use today. That said, Karem joins a trend on the internet in the 2010s whose origin is definitely hard to trace but is believed to have emerged from various online communities and memes.
Why is the name Karen believed to be one of the origins of Dane Cook’s 2005 comedy sketch “The Friend Nobody Likes.” In one of these comedic moments, he refers to a woman named Karen as a common name for an annoying person, which may contribute to the association of the name with a certain type of behavior.
Another suggestion of the term “Karen” came from the 2004 film Mean Girls, in which there is a female character named Karen. Within it, the name of Karen became a popular quote, as it says, “Oh my God, Karen, you can’t just ask someone why they are white.” In addition, Karen’s character also comes from the 1990 film Goodfellas, which was earlier than the film.
In addition, the term “Karen” is also believed to have originated from a subreddit called “r/FuckYouKaren”. This was created in 2017 on Reddit and is dedicated to sharing stories and memes about people exhibiting entitled behavior. This subreddit most likely helped popularize the term and its relationship to entitled and demanding behavior.
As time went by, the term “Karen” gained traction in the wider internet culture, especially on social media platforms such as Twitter. It is considered a popular and up-to-date way of labeling and criticizing individuals who exhibit certain behaviors. The stereotype associated with the term “Karen” is reinforced by the proliferation of memes, videos, and satirical depictions of stereotypes.
When Does an Individual Show a Karen Moment?
Basically, anyone will experience what is called an unpleasant moment, leading them to show their bad side; that is commonly called the “Karen Moment.” Even though someone may not be accurately characterized as a fully-fledged Karen person, in the context of a meme, a person who behaves in such a way would be referred to as someone who might need a reality check.
Furthermore, calling someone “Karen” can be considered an insult as well as a ‘warning’ to guide Karen to behave better. So, if you find someone who has a Karen Moment, you can know that the person really needs a bit of a reality check because they may be acting entitled, privileged, or selfishly.
However, it seems most people named Karen have a good sense of humor about it. It is important to approach the term with sensitivity and recognize that not all individuals named Karen exhibit the behaviors associated with these stereotypes.
How to Avoid Karen Moments?
You need to know that the main criticism of Karens is that they act arbitrarily and are often out of touch with reality, particularly when it comes to considering the needs and well-being of others.
Sure, there is no doubt that everyone can act like Karen. Since acting like Karen is considered a bad attitude, you may also worry if you’ll have a Karen moment someday. Well, the best thing you can do is check yourself first regarding your own privilege and whether you are really proud to have it. If yes, you may potentially act as Karen and often get Karen moments.
You may be able to avoid Karen by learning little-by-little about having patience with every unpleasant moment you experience, especially regarding services. Additionally, you have to come to terms with the fact that what you experienced in the past was a valuable lesson.
According to some studies, someone with the stereotype of Karen may be the result of not being raised with love, being in a bad environment, and having a bitter past. However, keep in mind that the term “Karen has become a cultural meme that perpetuates this stereotype. Of course, it must be used with caution and sensitivity.
A bookworm and researcher especially related to law and citizenship education. I spend time every day in front of the internet and the campus library.
