derp
An exclamation or label for a foolish mistake, awkward person, or silly moment.
By Cal Hewitt, Gen X · Researched from public sources · ·
What it actually means
Derp reacts to obvious stupidity, clumsiness, or a facepalm moment. It can describe oneself, a friend, or a cute animal. It can also be insulting when aimed at a person, so tone matters.
See the quick definition in the derp dictionary entry.
Where it came from
The earliest known recorded use is credited to the 1998 comedy BASEketball by Trey Parker and Matt Stone, then to the Mr. Derp character in South Park. It became a major internet meme word in the 2000s and 2010s.
Commonly credited to Trey Parker and Matt Stone are credited with the first known recorded use (1998), commonly reported.
Where it's popular
Internet memes, gaming, imageboards, and casual online chat.
It may be playful for pets but insulting for people.
How it caught on
- 1998BASEketball used derp.
- 1999South Park included Mr. Derp.
- 2000s-2010sDerp spread through internet memes and derp-face images.
How to use it
“I put my keys in the fridge. Derp.”
Admitting a silly mistake.
“That dog has the cutest derpy face.”
Playful pet description.
Common mix-ups
Derp is not a diagnosis or a respectful way to describe intellectual disability.
Do you actually know it?
Derp quiz
0/31. Derp usually reacts to:
2. Derp first appeared in:
3. Derpy can describe:
Related slang
Questions people ask
What does derp mean?
A silly mistake or foolish moment.
Where did derp come from?
The first known recorded use is in the 1998 film BASEketball.
What does derpy mean?
Awkwardly silly or adorably clumsy.
Derp moved from a comedy exclamation to a reusable reaction word across internet memes.
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