Sigma

Definition

Sigma refers to the "sigma male" archetype—a man who supposedly exists outside the traditional social hierarchy, succeeding through independence and self-reliance rather than social dominance. While originally used seriously in "manosphere" communities, the term is now almost exclusively used ironically or as a meme, often paired with edgy music and clips of fictional characters like Patrick Bateman.

Origin & History

The sigma male concept emerged from online discussions about male social hierarchies, specifically as an alternative to "alpha" and "beta" classifications. The idea was that sigma males are lone wolves who don't need social validation.

The term was used seriously in some corners of the internet, but by 2021, it became heavily memed. TikTok and YouTube edits featuring "sigma males" (usually fictional antiheroes like Patrick Bateman from American Psycho, Thomas Shelby from Peaky Blinders, or anime characters) set to dramatic music went viral.

The "sigma grindset" meme emerged, featuring absurd "motivational" advice like "While you were sleeping, I was grinding." This ironic usage essentially killed any serious use of the term—now calling someone "sigma" is almost always a joke.

How to Use It

Sigma is now used almost entirely ironically:

• Ironic compliment: Calling someone sigma for doing something independent
• Self-deprecating: Joking about your own "sigma" behavior
• Meme format: "Sigma rule #472: Never sleep"

Examples

"He ate lunch alone by choice. Absolute sigma."

"Sigma grindset: waking up at 4 AM to stare at the wall."

"That's such a sigma move."

"Sigma rule #847: Never explain yourself."

Related Terms

• Rizz
• Brainrot
• Aura
• Mewing