meme - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
meme Word Meanings
- a humorous image, video, or phrase that spreads online
- a unit of cultural information passed by imitation
- an internet trend or joke that becomes widely shared
meme Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
meme Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/miːm/
US
/miːm/
meme Word Etymology
Root decomposition: mim- denotes imitate and -eme marks a unit of cultural transmission. Historical origin: coined by Richard Dawkins in 1976 in The Selfish Gene, from Greek mimē meaning to imitate, via mimeme to meme. Memory image: imagine a contagious idea jumping from mind to mind.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
An online meme is a humorous image, video, or phrase that spreads rapidly across platforms, functioning as a unit of cultural information passed by imitation. Memes evolve as people remix and reinterpret them, often shaping conversations or trends far beyond their origin. The term was popularized by Richard Dawkins in The Selfish Gene (1976), with mimē meaning to imitate and mimeme the idea itself, a contagious mental unit jumping from mind to mind. In practice, a meme can be a simple image macro or a catchy slogan that grabs attention, then proliferates across social media, forums, and messaging apps worldwide.
Usage Reminders
- Note the noun form and plural: meme / memes. Be mindful of context and platform. Not every funny image is a meme. Remixes matter; a meme gains meaning through variation. Use it to discuss online culture rather than a stand-alone joke. Watch for crossed-cultural references that may not translate well.
Common Misconceptions
- Memes are only pictures, not text or video.
- A meme is always funny; it cannot be serious or critical.
- You need to create something new to be meme-worthy.
- Memes belong to a single platform and never cross over.
- A meme loses meaning if you translate it.
Thinking Differences
English speakers often view memes as quick, joke-driven cultural units that rely on shared, platform-specific contexts; learners may over-literalize or miss remix culture and regional references.
Learning Tips
- Study common meme formats (image macros, captioned photos, reaction videos).
- Note platform-specific styles (TikTok trends vs Reddit gifs).
- Pay attention to cultural references and inside jokes.
- Practice describing memes in your own words, including context.
- Don’t assume a single image equals a meme; look for remix variations.
- Learn the plural form memes and how to discuss memes in conversation.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'meme'?
A.A thought
B.A viral internet image
C.A type of dance
D.A type of fruit
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'meme' correctly?
A.The meme tasted delicious.
B.He danced a meme at the party.
C.She shared a funny cat meme on social media.
D.They grow memes in the garden.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'meme'?
A.Gif
B.Rainbow
C.Basketball
D.Dictionary
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'meme'?
A.Serious
B.Quiet
C.Normal
D.Sleepy
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario involving a 'meme'?
A.He took a long nap in the afternoon.
B.She went shopping for groceries.
C.They celebrated a birthday party with a meme theme.
D.They studied for a math test.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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