Creator slang
Meme
What is Meme?
A meme is a piece of content, typically an image, video, or text, that spreads rapidly across the internet and is often remixed or adapted by many different users. Memes are generally humorous and evolve over time as each iteration adds new cultural context.
When you'd use it
- 1When a cultural reference or image format is circulating widely and could be adapted to fit a brand message.
- 2When a product moment, phrase, or visual has been picked up and remixed by outside accounts.
- 3When a trending audio or video format functions as a shared cultural shorthand your audience already recognizes.
- 4When evaluating whether a piece of content has viral potential based on how easily others could remix it.
- 5When a campaign needs to feel timely without spending on production.
Example
In 2023, the distracted boyfriend meme format circulates again as a video template on TikTok. A software brand uses it without altering the format, with the punchline landing as the product name. The video earns 1.2 million views in 48 hours, outperforming the brand's produced content for that month.
Use cases
- 1Adapting a widely circulating video format to place a product inside a joke structure the audience already knows.
- 2Posting a reaction or remix of a meme that is already trending to surface the brand in relevant conversations.
- 3Cutting a clip so its punchline or visual lands in the exact position the meme format establishes as the payoff.
FAQ
Does using a meme template count as engagement bait?
No. A meme uses a recognizable format to deliver a joke or message. Engagement bait explicitly solicits interactions like likes or tags. A meme can trigger organic engagement without asking for it.
Make on-brand short-form video from the footage you already have.