Do you know what a male Karen is called according to Urban Dictionary? If you’re not familiar with the term Karen, it refers to a person who exhibits entitled and demanding behavior, often towards those who work in the service industry. Recently, the male counterpart of Karen has been given a name as well, and it’s just as hilarious as the original.
According to Urban Dictionary, a male Karen is referred to as a “Ken.” Yes, you read that right. Ken is the male equivalent of Karen, and it’s becoming increasingly popular in everyday language. This term is used to describe a man who behaves in a similarly demanding and entitled way as a Karen and is often directed towards service workers like waiters, bartenders, and retail staff.
In today’s world, it’s essential to know the latest slang and terminology, and apparently, knowing what a male Karen is called is now a must. While the Karen phenomenon has garnered some negative attention lately, it seems that knowing what a Ken is can add a bit of fun to everyday conversations. So, the next time you encounter someone who exhibits ‘Karen’ like behavior, you can now confidently refer to their male counterpart as a Ken.
Origin and Meaning of the term “Karen”
The term “Karen” has become a popular pejorative slang word on social media, especially on Twitter and Reddit, used to refer to a certain type of entitled, middle-aged, and usually white woman who complains and demands to speak to the manager of a store or restaurant over trivial matters. But where did the term “Karen” originate from?
The name “Karen” itself is not problematic or derogatory, but it has been used to represent a particular stereotype of a person. The term’s exact origin is unclear, but it seems to have gained popularity online over the past few years.
- Some have suggested that the term “Karen” originated from a Dane Cook comedy sketch in 2005, in which he mocked an entitled suburban woman named Karen who demanded to speak to the manager. However, this theory has been debunked as the comedian never referred to any character as ‘Karen’ in the sketch.
- Another theory suggests that it may have originated from a 2010 viral video called “My name is Karen”, in which a woman berates a store clerk over a coupon for a 50 cent discount. The video and the woman’s name became a meme, and the name “Karen” became associated with entitled and aggressive behavior.
- In a more recent development, the term “Karen” has been linked to the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020. Videos went viral on social media of white women (dubbed “Karens”) calling the police on Black people and falsely claiming that they were being threatened. This led to criticisms of white privilege and systematic racism.
Despite its recent popularity and frequent use, the use of the term “Karen” has also been criticized for being sexist, ageist and classist. Some people have argued that it unfairly targets middle-aged, suburban white women and perpetuates harmful stereotypes and prejudices.
Common characteristics of a male “Karen”
A male Karen, also known as a “Ken” or “Kevin,” exhibits a specific set of characteristics that make them easily identifiable. Here are some of the most common traits:
- Entitled: Male Karens believe that they are entitled to everything they want and will demand it vehemently.
- Aggressive: They often take an aggressive approach to getting their way, even resorting to yelling or insults.
- Condescending: Male Karens will often talk down to others and disregard their opinions or feelings.
- Self-righteous: They believe themselves to be morally superior and may become defensive if others question their actions or beliefs.
- Refusal to listen: Karens often interrupt and talk over others, refusing to listen to any opposing viewpoints.
- Quick to escalate: Male Karens can quickly escalate a situation to involve management or law enforcement.
The impact of male Karens
The behavior of male Karens can cause significant harm to the people around them. They may intimidate or bully those they perceive as weaker, or use their influence and entitlement to get away with inappropriate behavior. Their self-centered attitude can cause disruptions in social events, workplaces, and even public spaces. In some cases, they may provoke confrontations that cause harm to themselves or others.
The rise of male Karenism
Male Karens have existed for decades, but the popularity of social media has brought their behavior into the public eye. Many examples of male Karens behaving badly have gone viral, sparking public outrage. Some have used their public platforms to speak out against male Karenism and the toxic behavior it represents.
Examples of Male Karenism | Description |
---|---|
Aaron Schlossberg | A lawyer who was filmed yelling at restaurant employees for speaking Spanish |
Mark Zuckerberg | Facebook CEO who was criticized for his entitlement and disregard for user privacy |
David Leavitt | A journalist who tweeted that he would call the police on a Target employee because they wouldn’t sell him a toothbrush for $0.01 |
Michael Lofthouse | A CEO who was filmed making racist remarks towards an Asian family at a restaurant |
These individuals represent just a few of the many examples of male Karens whose behavior has been brought to light in recent years. By understanding the characteristics of a male Karen and speaking out against toxic behavior, we can work towards creating a more peaceful and inclusive society.
Other slang terms for a male “Karen”
While “Karen” has become a mainstream term for a difficult, entitled person, the male equivalent has not yet gained as much recognition. Despite this, there are a few slang terms that have been developed to describe a male “Karen”. Here are some of the most popular:
- Chad – This term is often used to describe a stereotypical, privileged frat boy who has a sense of entitlement and behaves arrogantly.
- Todd – Similar to Chad, Todd is used to describe a man who is arrogant, entitled, and often complains when things don’t go his way.
- Greg – Greg is often described as the “Karen” of the workplace, constantly micromanaging and complaining about trivial issues.
It’s important to note that while these terms are often used in jest, they can be harmful if used to dehumanize or dismiss a person’s valid concerns. It’s important to approach difficult situations with empathy and understanding, rather than relying on derogatory terms.
While these terms may provide a quick and easy way to describe a difficult person, it’s important to remember that they do not encompass the complexity of human behavior. Instead, focus on understanding the actions and motivations behind a person’s behavior, and work towards finding a solution that addresses the underlying issues.
Conclusion
While the male equivalent of “Karen” has not gained as much traction in popular culture, there are a few slang terms that have been developed to describe entitled, difficult men. It’s important to approach difficult situations with empathy and understanding, rather than relying on derogatory terms that can dehumanize or dismiss a person’s valid concerns.
Slang Term | Description |
---|---|
Chad | Privileged frat boy who behaves arrogantly |
Todd | Arrogant and entitled man who complains when things don’t go his way |
Greg | “Karen” of the workplace, micromanaging and complaining about trivial issues |
Remember to approach difficult situations with empathy and understanding, rather than relying on derogatory terms.
Memes and Viral Videos featuring Male “Karens”
One of the great things about the internet is how quickly it can turn a small joke into a massive meme or viral sensation. That’s exactly what’s happened with the concept of the “male Karen.” Here are a few of the most popular memes and viral videos featuring male “Karens.”
- The “Maskless Wonder”: This YouTube video shows a man at a Costco who refuses to wear a mask, leading to a heated argument with store employees and customers. The man demands to speak with a manager and throws a tantrum when he’s told to leave. The video has been viewed over 5 million times.
- Racist Ranting in Central Park: In May 2020, a video went viral of a white woman in Central Park calling the police on a black man who asked her to leash her dog in a birdwatching area. The woman, dubbed “Central Park Karen,” can be heard saying things like, “I’m going to tell them there’s an African American man threatening my life.” The video sparked outrage and discussions about racism and privilege.
- The “Diva Driver”: A video posted to Twitter in July 2020 shows a man shouting at a Starbucks employee through the drive-thru window because his drink isn’t ready. He demands his money back and says he’s going to call the CEO of Starbucks. The video was captioned “He’s a male Karen” and has over 1 million views.
In addition to these specific examples, there are countless memes featuring male “Karens” floating around on social media. Many of these memes use the same format as the original “Karen” memes, with captions like “Can I speak to your manager?” or “This is unacceptable!” paired with a photo of an angry, entitled-looking man.
In a way, the rise of male “Karen” memes and viral videos can be seen as a positive development. By calling out entitled, aggressive behavior from men, these memes and videos help bring attention to the broader issue of toxic masculinity and male privilege. At the same time, it’s important to recognize that not all men who exhibit these behaviors are “Karens” or deserve to be publicly shamed.
Conclusion
The term “male Karen” might still be relatively new, but its usage has quickly spread throughout the internet community. While the phrase is undoubtedly funny, it’s important to remember that the behavior it describes can be harmful and oppressive. Ultimately, the best way to combat “male Karen” behavior is to hold individuals accountable for their actions and work to create a more equitable society for all.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Adds humor to a difficult situation | Can perpetuate harmful stereotypes about entitled white people |
Brings attention to toxic behavior | Can create division and animosity between groups |
May discourage others from behaving in similar ways | Can be misused to describe people who don’t deserve it |
Overall, the term “male Karen” is just one small part of a larger conversation about social justice and equality. While it might be tempting to make fun of entitled, angry men, it’s important to remember that these behaviors reflect deeper issues in our society. By remaining vigilant and holding individuals accountable for their actions, we can work to create a better world for all.
How to deal with a male “Karen”
If you’ve come across a male “Karen,” you may be dealing with someone who can be difficult to deal with. Here are some tips on how to handle the situation:
- Stay calm – The first thing you should do is try to remain calm. When a male Karen is upset, they can often become aggressive, and it’s important not to escalate the situation.
- Listen actively – Let the male Karen express their concerns and listen actively. Make an effort to understand their perspective before offering your own thoughts.
- Remain professional – Even if the male Karen is not treating you with respect, it’s important to maintain professionalism. Use your best judgment when responding to their complaints, but try to remain level-headed.
Dealing with a male Karen can be stressful, but it’s important to remember that you don’t have to engage in their behavior. Here are some additional tips on how to manage male Karen-like behavior:
- Be prepared – If you are dealing with someone who consistently behaves like a male Karen, it’s a good idea to be prepared for potential confrontations. Develop a strategy for how to handle difficult individuals.
- Don’t take it personally – Male Karens often take their frustrations out on anyone around them, and it’s important not to take their behavior personally. Remember that their anger is not directed at you specifically, but rather at a situation they are unhappy with.
- Know your limits – If you feel like the interaction with the male Karen is becoming too confrontational or aggressive, it’s important to know your limits. Consider walking away or seeking assistance from other individuals.
Summary Table: How to deal with a male “Karen”
Actions to take | Things to consider |
---|---|
Stay calm | Male Karens can become aggressive easily |
Listen actively | Try to understand their perspective before offering yours |
Remain professional | Even if Karen is not showing you respect |
Be prepared | Develop a strategy for dealing with difficult individuals |
Don’t take it personally | Remember their anger is not directed at you |
Know your limits | If it’s becoming too much, consider walking away or seeking assistance |
Male privilege and the “Karen” phenomenon
Male privilege is defined as the societal advantage that men have over women in areas such as access to education, job opportunities, and pay. This privilege is deeply ingrained within our cultural norms and can manifest in various ways.
The term “Karen” has been used to describe entitled, middle-aged white women who demand their way at the expense of others and often use their privilege to get what they want. However, it’s important to note that this term specifically refers to white women and does not encompass the privilege that men have.
- Men, particularly white men, are more likely to hold positions of power and leadership within industries such as politics, business, and media. This allows them to make decisions that perpetuate the gender pay gap and limit opportunities for women.
- Men are also afforded more freedom and respect in public spaces, whereas women often face harassment and discrimination.
- The “Karen” phenomenon is just one example of how entitlement and privilege are intertwined, and it’s important to recognize that this behavior can be exhibited by both men and women.
It’s important to acknowledge the role that male privilege plays in perpetuating inequality and to actively work towards creating a more equal society. This can involve advocating for policies that address the gender pay gap, supporting women in leadership positions, and calling out entitlement and privilege when it’s exhibited.
Examples of male privilege | Examples of female disadvantage |
---|---|
Men are more likely to be hired and promoted in male-dominated industries. | Women are often overlooked for job opportunities and promotions in male-dominated industries. |
Men are not expected to prioritize family or childcare responsibilities. | Women are often penalized for taking time off or balancing family responsibilities with work. |
Men are more likely to be applauded for assertiveness and leadership qualities. | Women are often perceived as bossy or aggressive when exhibiting these same qualities. |
By understanding and actively working to dismantle male privilege, we can create a more just and equitable society for all genders.
Controversies and criticisms surrounding the “Karen” meme
The “Karen” meme has sparked numerous controversies and criticisms since its inception. Its association with white women who display entitlement, privilege, and racist behavior has been seen as problematic and reinforces negative stereotypes.
Here are some of the controversies and criticisms surrounding the “Karen” meme:
- Perpetuates negative stereotypes: The “Karen” meme has been criticized for perpetuating negative stereotypes about white women. Some argue that it unfairly paints all white women with the same brush, and reinforces harmful stereotypes about their behavior and attitudes.
- Dismisses valid complaints: Some argue that the “Karen” meme dismisses valid complaints made by white women, by mocking and belittling their grievances. For example, a white woman complaining about inadequate service at a restaurant may be dismissed as a “Karen” and not taken seriously.
- Has a racial bias: The “Karen” meme has been accused of having a racial bias, as it primarily targets white women. Critics argue that this reinforces the idea that only white women are entitled and problematic, while ignoring similar behavior from individuals of other races.
The Impact of the “Karen” Meme
The “Karen” meme has had a significant impact on popular culture and social media. It has been widely used and shared on various platforms, leading to a widespread awareness of the term and its meaning.
The meme has also sparked numerous discussions and debates about its validity, with some arguing that it promotes a harmful and biased message, while others defend it as a way to call out problematic behavior.
The Evolution of the “Karen” Meme
The “Karen” meme has evolved over time, with variations and adaptations emerging as it gained popularity. Some of the more recent iterations have focused on male counterparts of the “Karen,” with words like “Ken” and “Kyle” being used to describe entitled and aggressive behavior from men.
Term | Meaning |
---|---|
Karen | Entitled and privileged behavior from white women |
Ken | Entitled and privileged behavior from white men |
Kyle | Aggressive and entitled behavior from young white men |
While the “Karen” meme may continue to be controversial, there is no denying its impact and influence on popular culture and social media.
What is a Male Karen Called Urban Dictionary?
1. What is a male Karen called on Urban Dictionary?
A male Karen is called a Kevin on Urban Dictionary.
2. What is the origin of the name Kevin to refer to a male Karen?
The name Kevin was chosen as it has been historically seen as a stereotypical name for a white male.
3. What are the characteristics of a Kevin?
A Kevin is typically a middle-aged white man who exhibits entitled behavior, often complaining or causing a fuss in public.
4. How is a Kevin different from a Karen?
Karens are typically middle-aged white women who exhibit the same entitled behavior as a Kevin.
5. What are some examples of Kevin behavior?
Examples of Kevin behavior include speaking to customer service representatives in a condescending manner, refusing to follow rules or guidelines, and demanding special treatment.
6. Is calling someone a Kevin offensive?
The use of the term Kevin as a male Karen is meant to be humorous and to point out the behavior, not to offend.
7. How has the term Kevin been received by the public?
The term Kevin has been widely accepted and has even been used in mainstream media to refer to entitled behavior.
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