Do Memes Imitate Life?

So the meme phenomenon has exploded in the past year. You can find images of anything from the snarky Willy Wonka to Scumbag Steve with messages underneath commenting on your misfortune. First-world problems, hipster tendencies, inside jokes at certain universities; none of these are safe from the discerning mock judgment of memes near you.

For anyone who hasn’t run across one of these hilarious images, a meme is defined by good old Webster as “an element of a culture or behavior that may be passed from one individual to another by nongenetic means, esp. imitation.” In layman’s terms, funny photos coupled with even funnier sayings. We’ve also provided some of the best of this young year to help you get the idea.

1.      Kid breaking a promise

He’s that annoying childhood friend that scammed you out of ice cream money, screamed no takebacks during any game he was already winning, and was a general all-around pest. Good riddance.

2.      Slacker teachers

Thanks for passing the buck, educators. Something tells me it’s not just the extended summer break that’s making us fall behind.

3.      Hils gets too cool for Oprah

Maybe Hillary should have released this photo during the 2008 election. At least it shows that she’s all about self-sufficiency. I know she would have gotten my vote.

4.      Worst predicament ever

A classic first-world problem: freeze on the walk over, or have your free hand encumbered by that troublesome coat? Right after we cure cancer and remedy world hunger, this definitely qualifies as #3 on the to-do list.

5.      Swag in a bottle

Who doesn’t need a little liquid courage sometimes to bust a move? And the best part is, even if you have no rhythm, you’ll have no idea how badly you’re embarrassing yourself.

6.      Awkward pick-up

Just because the boy has math skills doesn’t mean he has game. At least everyone within at least five rows of the unhappy couple is embarrassed enough for him.

7.      Skating professor meme

Just one of the perks of healthcare advancement as the greatest generation hits their later decades. I’ll personally skate with Pops before I ever hit the half pipe with some young whippersnappers.

8.      TSA meme

I know you’re supposed to be comfortable on your flight, and I don’t have many rules for airport fashion. But a voluntary strip search is not any TSA agent’s idea of a good time. 

9.      Ridiculously Photogenic Guy  

You know that guy that looks great in every photo? Zeddie Little is such a man. The original image was posted on Flickr in the AM and by lunchtime had over 300,000 hits!  (admin note: This wasn't included in the original list, but we couldn't resist!)