snowflake

In contemporary slang, snowflake refers to a person perceived as overly emotional, easily offended, or possessing an unwarranted sense of entitlement. While the metaphor of a snowflake representing uniqueness dates back further, the modern pejorative usage is widely attributed to Chuck Palahniuk’s 1996 novel Fight Club and its 1999 film adaptation, which featured the line, "You are not a beautiful and unique snowflake." By the mid-2010s, the term shifted from criticizing narcissism to becoming a politicized insult, typically directed at younger generations (Millennials and Gen Z) or political liberals.

Usage of the term is highly polarized. Proponents often use it to critique what they view as a culture of victimhood, intellectual fragility, and an intolerance for opposing viewpoints, particularly regarding free speech on university campuses. Conversely, critics argue that the term is a dismissive ad hominem attack used to belittle individuals expressing legitimate concerns about social justice or mental health. Linguistically, it often serves as a conversation-stopper intended to characterize an opponent as weak rather than engaging with their arguments.

Example:
"The editorial claimed that universities are coddling a generation of snowflakes who cannot handle intellectual disagreement."

Example:
"When he asked for a trigger warning on the syllabus, he was mocked as a snowflake by the professor."