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the Tibeto-Burman language spoken in the Thailand and Burmese borderlands
a middle-aged white woman seen as entitled, demanding, and rude, often using privilege to get her way
Offensive
SlangWhat is the origin and meaning of the word Karen?
The slang term "Karen" is used to describe a stereotypical middle-aged white woman who is seen as entitled, demanding, and often rude, especially toward service workers or in public situations. The stereotype also includes someone who frequently asks to "speak to the manager." The term gained popularity in the 2010s through internet memes and social media, partly inspired by comedy sketches and viral stories that mocked such behavior. Its exact origin is debated, but some trace it back to stand-up comedy routines and Reddit discussions in the mid-2000s. Over time, "Karen" has evolved into a cultural shorthand for privilege, entitlement, and unreasonable complaints.
