meh

Meh is an interjection in English used to express indifference, apathy, or muted enthusiasm in response to a person, object, or situation. It typically signals that something is mediocre, unremarkable, or not worth strong attention. The term is most often employed in informal speech and writing, including online communication, to convey a toned-down reaction without strong judgment.

Etymology and history of the term are not definitively established. Meh is generally described as an onomatopoeic or phonetic representation of a neutral vocalization. It entered broader usage in American English during the late 20th century and gained prominence through popular culture and internet communities. Major dictionaries recognize meh as an interjection indicating indifference or lack of enthusiasm, reflecting its wide acceptance in contemporary language.

Usage and variants: Meh can stand alone as a sentence (Meh) or appear within a clause (That movie was meh). It is common in casual conversation, chat, forums, and social media, where it functions as a compact judgment about quality or interest. Variants include elongated spellings or emphasis marks in informal writing (meh, meh!). While closely linked to indifference, meh is typically milder than expressions of outright disdain and is often used to temper strong opinions.

Cultural impact: As a concise cultural marker, meh has become a recognizable element of internet culture and consumer commentary. It appears in memes, reaction images, and casual reviews to signal a measured or unimpressed stance toward products, performances, or trends.