Selfie: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'selfie' first appeared in an Australian online forum in 2002.
• It became widely recognized in 2013 when the Oxford Dictionary named it Word of the Year.
• The word is a blend of 'self' and 'portrait,' reflecting the personal nature of the image.

Cultural Impact

• The rise of social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat has popularized selfies worldwide.
• Selfies have been associated with promoting self-expression, with campaigns encouraging people to embrace their real selves.
• Some people have coined the term 'selca' (self-camera) to refer to similar self-portraits primarily in Korea.

Psychology

• Studies suggest that taking selfies can enhance self-esteem, as people often curate and present their best selves.
• However, excessive focus on self-image in selfies can lead to comparisons and negative feelings about one's appearance.
• The act of sharing selfies can foster community and connection, but may also provoke anxiety about public judgment.

Technology

• The front-facing camera, which made taking selfies easier, became standard on smartphones around 2010.
• Various apps have emerged to enhance selfies, allowing users to apply filters and effects for dramatic presentations.
• Drone selfies are now a trend, using flying cameras to capture a person in scenic locations from above.

Art

• Selfies have inspired contemporary art, with artists using this medium to explore themes of identity and self-representation.
• Some art installations involve large prints of selfies reflecting the complexities of modern social interaction.
• Self-portraiture in photography has evolved into meaningful artistic commentary thanks to the selfie phenomenon.