Definition of"NPC" in English
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NPC
Definitions
Noun
Noun
Examples
"The quest giver in the village is an NPC who will provide you with your next mission."
The quest giver in the village is an NPC who will provide you with your next mission.
"He just repeats whatever he hears on social media; he's acting like a total NPC."
He just repeats whatever he hears on social media; he's acting like a total NPC.
Synonyms
Etymology
An acronym derived from 'Non-Player Character,' a term that originated in tabletop role-playing games (such as Dungeons & Dragons) in the 1970s and was later widely adopted in video games. Its informal, pejorative usage, describing individuals lacking independent thought, emerged and gained significant traction in online communities in the late 2010s.
Cultural Notes
The term 'NPC' has significantly evolved beyond its gaming origins to become a pervasive piece of internet slang, particularly prominent on social media platforms and within certain online subcultures. In its informal use, it is often employed in a derogatory manner to dismiss, mock, or dehumanize individuals whose opinions, actions, or appearances are seen as unoriginal, predictable, or lacking genuine critical thought. It implies a perceived lack of agency or free will, suggesting that the person is merely reacting to external stimuli or pre-programmed ideas rather than thinking for themselves. This usage is especially common among younger generations (Gen Z, Gen Alpha) and can be found in a wide range of online discourse, including political and cultural debates.