reblogs

Reblogs are a form of content sharing on social platforms in which a user reposts another user’s post to their own blog or profile. The repost preserves attribution to the original author and typically appears in the reblogger’s feed alongside the original post. Reblogging differs from simply liking a post by prioritizing propagation over endorsement; it is a way to extend reach and visibility.

Originating with Tumblr in the mid-2000s, the reblog function creates a new post that links back to the source. On Tumblr, reblogs can be posted with or without additional commentary; a reblog with commentary allows the reblogger to insert a caption that appears between the posts in the thread. The number of notes (reblogs, likes, and replies) reflects the post’s spread and engagement. Other platforms use analogous actions, such as reshares or retweets, which perform similar amplification within their own networks.

Impact and practices: Reblogs are a key mechanism for meme culture, fan communities, news dissemination, and content discovery. They can rapidly amplify both accurate information and misinformation, so attribution and careful sharing are encouraged. Etiquette generally includes crediting the original creator, avoiding misattribution, and respecting copyright or licensing terms. While reblogging increases exposure for authors, it also anchors content within existing communities, shaping how ideas circulate online.