cowails

Cowails is a term that emerged in online communities, particularly within the context of social media and internet culture. It generally refers to a specific type of online behavior or persona. While the exact definition can be fluid and subject to interpretation by different groups, it often describes individuals who exhibit traits such as excessive self-pity, a tendency to constantly seek attention or validation through negative means, or a pattern of eliciting sympathy without taking personal responsibility.

The term is typically used in a pejorative or critical manner, implying that the behavior is perceived as manipulative or disingenuous. It is not an official psychological term and its usage is confined to informal online discourse. Individuals labeled as "cowails" may be seen as oversharing personal difficulties, exaggerating their struggles, or adopting a victim mentality to gain attention or avoid criticism. The term itself is a portmanteau, combining "coward" and "wails," suggesting a perception of weakness and complaint. Its prevalence is linked to the ways in which online platforms facilitate the expression and perception of personal narratives, sometimes leading to the creation of specific internet archetypes.