massemplate

Massemplate is a term that emerged from early internet culture, specifically within online communities and forums. It is a portmanteau of "mass" and "template," suggesting a standardized or mass-produced format for communication or creative expression. The concept often referred to the tendency for users to adopt similar phrasing, meme formats, or even character archetypes in their online interactions.

This phenomenon could be observed in various contexts. For instance, in online role-playing games, players might gravitate towards using a limited set of character builds or dialogue options. Similarly, in social media, viral trends and popular catchphrases could become so widespread that they acted as a form of massemplate, with users repeating and adapting them. The term often carried a slightly critical or observational tone, highlighting a perceived lack of originality or a homogenization of online content.

While the term "massemplate" itself may not be widely used in current discourse, the underlying concept of shared formats and evolving online trends continues to be relevant. The study of internet memes, viral content, and collective online behaviors touches upon similar ideas of standardized expression and influence within digital communities. The ease with which content can be copied, shared, and remixed online inherently fosters the creation and adoption of these informal templates.