What does it mean to be a Sigma? Discover the origins, meaning, and uses of this popular term on TikTok and the internet at large.
They say some of the best internet trends start from older ones. When you hear ‘Sigma’ the first thing that you may think of is the Greek alphabet. However, the term means a lot more these days.
If you are an internet user, then you’ve probably come across the word ‘Sigma’ before. Sigma or ‘Sigma male’ is a TikTok slang that has left many contemplating its meaning with perplexity.
If you are just like the user in the tweet above then you probably don’t know much about the Sigma TikTok meme or what it means. Although, that is about to change, read more to unravel the mystery of Sigma.
Meaning and Origins of Sigma on TikTok
Sigma is a TikTok slang word meaning someone — usually a man — who is strong-willed with an independent mindset. Essentially, it is GenZ’s response to the popular term ‘alpha male’. Urban dictionary aptly describes it here as ‘One step above an alpha male’.
While fairly recent, the Sigma TikTok meme’s meaning dates back to the turn of the 21st century. And it is commonly associated with this clip of the character Patrick Bateman played by Christian Bale.
The main focus of the viral meme would be the part toward the end of the clip where Patrick Bateman pouts and then grins while frowning. However, the meme is usually edited with music in the background and some songs majorly used in the edits are, ‘Metamorphosis’ by Interworld, and Phonk remixes of ‘Miss You’ by Oliver Tree.
Sigma memes usually involve shocking and/or polarising responses that could be interpreted as sleek or funny. The videos below are examples of the everyday use of the Sigma TikTok meme.
The Sigma TikTok meme is also used to give contextual meaning to videos — like the one below — involving stoic characters who are usually men.
The Sigma meme kickstarted a viral trend where TikTokers attempted to recreate the face made in the meme. This was first done by TikTok user @argenby whose quirky impression went viral, spawning over 99 million views.
If you want to learn how to make the Sigma face yourself, here is a tutorial video.
The hashtag #sigma now has over 68 billion views and counting on TikTok. And as long as Sigma people continue to exist, this trend will persist.
What do you think about the Sigma meme? Would you use it in a reaction or are you a Sigma yourself?
