“Woke” originally comes from African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and means being aware of social injustices, particularly those related to race and inequality. It has evolved over time and is often used to describe a heightened awareness of various social issues, including gender, sexuality, and environmental concerns.
In Urban Dictionary, the term can have multiple definitions, often reflecting a mix of respect for the concept of being socially conscious and criticism of those who may be perceived as overly politically correct or performative in their activism. The usage can vary widely, with some definitions emphasizing genuine awareness and advocacy, while others may mock or deride the concept, especially in the context of “cancel culture” or perceived hypocrisy.
Overall, the term “woke” has become a polarizing topic in contemporary discourse, often associated with both positive social change and negative stereotypes, depending on the context in which it is used.