Oncelers

Oncelers is a term that emerged within certain online communities, particularly those on social media platforms like TikTok. It generally refers to individuals who are perceived as having a nostalgic or overly fond attachment to past trends, music, fashion, or cultural moments, especially those from the early 2000s. The term is often used to describe people who feel that earlier eras were superior to the present day in some fundamental way, whether in terms of artistic expression, social interactions, or overall quality of life.

The "oncelers" phenomenon is characterized by a strong engagement with retro aesthetics and media. This can manifest as sharing old photographs, discussing outdated technologies, listening to music from previous decades, and lamenting the perceived decline of certain cultural values. While the term can sometimes be used playfully or affectionately within fan communities, it can also carry a slightly critical or dismissive connotation, implying that those labeled as "oncelers" are stuck in the past and resistant to contemporary developments. The exact definition and perception of "oncelers" can vary depending on the specific online subculture and the context in which the term is used.