Selfie Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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selfie
[ˈsɛlfi ]
Definition
photography, personal
A selfie is a self-portrait photograph, typically taken with a smartphone or webcam, and usually shared on social media platforms. It often features the person holding the camera at arm's length or using a selfie stick. The practice of taking selfies has gained immense popularity in the 21st century, especially with the rise of social media and instant photo sharing. Selfies can capture various moods and settings, making them a common form of self-expression.
Synonyms
self-portrait, self-taken photo.
Examples of usage
- She posted a selfie from her vacation.
- He took a quick selfie to document the moment.
- The trend of taking selfies has changed how we perceive photography.
- Selfies have become a cultural phenomenon, especially among younger generations.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'selfie'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'selfie' is a colloquial term that originated in the early 2000s, specifically emerging from online communities and social media platforms. It is derived from the English word 'self,' indicating that it is a photograph that one takes of oneself. The term gained broader public attention after being used in online forums, particularly in Australia, where the first known usage was noted in 2002. As smartphones equipped with cameras became ubiquitous, the act of taking selfies soared in popularity, leading to the emergence of specific features designed for selfies in various applications. By the late 2010s, 'selfie' was recognized as a cultural staple, evidenced by its inclusion in major dictionaries and various global events celebrating the phenomenon. It reflects contemporary themes of self-image, identity, and the digital age, illustrating how personal experiences are shared with wider audiences.