If you’ve spent any time on the internet, you’ve probably come across the handshake meme. This popular format features two hands clasped together in a handshake, with labels added to each hand and the space above them. It’s a versatile meme that can be used to highlight similarities, agreements, or even unlikely partnerships. As someone who’s seen this meme evolve, I can say it’s one of the most effective ways to communicate a shared idea or connection.
The Origins of the Handshake Meme
The handshake meme’s origins can be traced back to a famous scene from the 1987 movie Predator. In this scene, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Carl Weathers share a powerful handshake, their muscular arms locking together in a moment of intense camaraderie. The image of their handshake became iconic, and it wasn’t long before the internet turned it into a meme format. The meme often uses this image or a simplified drawing of two hands shaking. Over time, people started adding labels to represent different groups, ideas, or concepts that come together for a common cause.
Why Is the Handshake Meme So Popular?
One of the main reasons the handshake meme is so popular is its flexibility. You can use it to highlight almost anything—politics, pop culture, science, or even personal interests. The meme works because it takes two seemingly unrelated things and shows how they are connected through a common ground.
Another reason for its popularity is that it’s easy to understand. The visual of two hands shaking is a universal symbol of agreement or partnership. When you add labels to each hand, it immediately makes sense what the meme is trying to say.
Examples of the Handshake Meme in Action
Let me share a few examples to show how the handshake meme can be used:
- Gaming and Movies: One hand labeled “Gamers,” the other “Movie Fans,” with the common ground being “Loving Adaptations of Video Games into Movies.”
- Work and Relaxation: One hand labeled “Work-from-Home Employees,” the other “Coffee Drinkers,” with the common ground being “Needing Caffeine to Survive.”
- Different Generations: One hand labeled “Boomers,” the other “Gen Z,” with the common ground being “Complaining About Millennials.”
These examples show just how versatile and relatable the handshake meme can be.
How to Create Your Own Handshake Meme
Creating your own handshake meme is simple. You just need to think of two groups, ideas, or things that can be connected. Then, find an image of two hands shaking or use a meme generator online. Add your labels, and you’ve got a handshake meme ready to share.
Conclusion
The handshake meme is a powerful tool for communication. It’s simple, easy to understand, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking to make a statement, share a laugh, or highlight an unexpected connection, this meme format is a great choice. As someone who’s seen this meme used in countless creative ways, I highly recommend giving it a try.
