What does Clout mean?
Influence, fame, or social currency
Detailed Explanation
In the context of social media and internet culture, 'clout' refers to a person's level of fame, influence, and social standing. Having clout means being popular and respected within a certain online community. A 'clout chaser' is someone who tries to associate with famous people or create drama purely to gain more clout for themselves.
Usage Examples
“He's only collaborating with her for the clout.”
“After his video went viral, he gained a lot of clout.”
“That influencer has some serious clout in the beauty community.”
Origin & History
The word 'clout' has meant 'influence' for a long time. Its specific modern usage tied to social media fame and influence was heavily popularized by Chicago's hip-hop scene in the early 2010s and subsequently spread across the internet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is having clout a good thing?
It's neutral. Having clout simply means you are influential. However, the methods used to gain it ('clout chasing') are often seen as disingenuous and negative.