The Origin of Meme - Ep.3

01/18/25 • 4 min

What exactly is a meme? In this episode of Lexiconned, we dive into the fascinating origin story of the word that dominates our internet culture. From its surprising beginnings as a concept in evolutionary biology, coined by Richard Dawkins in the 1970s, to its rapid evolution into a language of its own online, we uncover how "meme" transformed from cultural genes to viral sensations. Along the way, we explore what makes a meme truly meme-worthy, revisit some classic internet moments (Dancing Baby, anyone?), and examine how memes have shaped everything from political movements to brand marketing. Join TJ for a witty, insightful journey through linguistic history and digital culture that will have you looking at your favorite memes in a whole new light.

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Don't forget to subscribe and share your favorite meme with us on social media!
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Share your suggestion for words or phrases, thoughts on the episodes, or just engage with us on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/lexiconnedpodcast/

Previous Episode

The History of "Nice" -Ep.2

In this week’s episode of Lexiconned, we explore the surprisingly unkind history of a word we use every day: nice. Did you know that this seemingly harmless compliment started its life as a Latin insult ? From Chaucer's sly use of the word to its modern overuse, “nice” has had a rollercoaster journey through the centuries. Join me as we uncover how this word evolved from foolish to friendly, why its vagueness makes it so versatile, and how you can wield it. Stay curious, stay kind—and maybe rethink calling someone “nice.”
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Next Episode

The Origin of Raining Cats & Dogs - Ep.4

Ever heard someone say it’s "raining cats and dogs" and imagined a furry storm? In this episode, we dive into the origins of this bizarre idiom. Is it rooted in Norse mythology, medieval sanitation, or just a wild misinterpretation? We’ll unravel the truth behind this phrase, debunk some persistent myths, and explore how language evolves in unexpected ways. Tune in for a shower of history, a drizzle of humor, and maybe even a downpour of surprising facts. No umbrellas required!
Sources:
https://www.loc.gov/everyday-mysteries/meteorology-climatology/item/what-is-the-origin-of-the-phrase-its-raining-cats-and-dogs/
https://www.bookbrowse.com/expressions/detail/index.cfm/expression_number/706/its-raining-cats-and-dogs
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raining_cats_and_dogs

Send us a text

Share your suggestion for words or phrases, thoughts on the episodes, or just engage with us on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/lexiconnedpodcast/

Lexiconned - The Origin of Meme - Ep.3

Transcript

TJ Martin (Host)

0:04
Music. Welcome to Lexiconned, the podcast where words get their stories straight and we cut through the linguistic fog to uncover the truth. And today we're diving into a word that has taken the internet by storm, a word that refuses to log off. Meme.
0:20
You've seen them, you've laughed at them, maybe you've even created one. But seriously, what is a meme? I'm sure you're thinking through the last few you've seen So is it just a funny pic