What Does The Slang Term ‘Snowflake’ Mean?

Last updated on May 25, 2024 by Isabella Claire

Snowflake meaning! If you have been anywhere on social media in recent years, then odds are that you have seen or heard the term “snowflake” used more than once. Although you may know that snowflakes are individual pieces if snow, in recent years this term has taken on a much different meaning.

Here you will find that meaning, some information regarding its origin, and other meanings of the slang term. You will also find some example sentences using the term in its slang form and some alternative words or phrases to use as synonyms for this word in slang form.

Snowflake Meaning

What Does Snowflake Mean?

The slang term “snowflake” is a derogatory adjective used to describe someone who protests themselves to others as being entitled, overly unique, highly emotional, easily offended, and unable to accept a difference of opinion. It is typically used as an insult.

Origin of Snowflake

Although people tend to think “snowflake” is a new insult, it has been used in history as an insult since at least the 1860s. During this time, people who opposed the abolition of slavery were referred to derogatorily as a “snowflake.” In the 1970s, the term “snowflake” was used to describe white people and black people who were perceived as acting more white than black. The most current meaning most likely comes from the 1990 novel Fight Club where a line in the book compares a character to not being unique like a snowflake and says they are just like everyone else.

Other Meanings

Other than the alternative meanings already explained in the introduction and the origin of this article, there are no other known meanings for the term “snowflake.”

The word “snowflake” has multiple other meanings beyond its literal definition as a small ice crystal. It can also be used to describe a unique or special person. In computer science, it refers to a complex database schema that is harder to manage than other types. In military jargon, it can refer to a novice soldier, but this usage is often derogatory. And in astrology, it can refer to a rare and unusual astrological configuration. Isn’t language fascinating?

Example Conversations

A text conversation between two friends.

  • Friend 1: I wish Phyllis would stop being such a snowflake.
  • Friend 2: What do you mean?
  • Friend 1: I mean she tries to act like she is better than everyone else and when you try to bring her back down to earth, she acts offended.
  • Friend 2: Yes, that’s true. I’ve noticed the same thing.

An online conversation between two Facebook users.

  • User 1: I can’t believe someone would be so cruel on the internet to someone they don’t even know. It’s despicable! You should be ashamed of yourself!
  • User 2: Oh quit your complaining little girl! You are just like all the other little snowflakes of your generation.

Alternatives to “Snowflake”

There are several different words or phrases that you could use to replace the word “snowflake” in conversation. Similar words or phrases you could use to convey the same meaning include:

  • Weak
  • Soft
  • Sissy

Snowflake Meaning Infographic

Snowflake

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