How ‘lore’ became the internet’s favorite way to overshare

Lore, originally referring to knowledge and stories, has transformed into internet slang for deeply personal and often traumatic experiences shared online. TikTok has popularized the term, with creators using it to reveal intimate details of their lives, including mental health struggles. The term encompasses "having lore" (possessing a mysterious backstory), "dropping lore" (revealing a previously unknown event), and "dad lore" (fathers sharing surprising anecdotes). Social media's emphasis on oversharing and TikTok's storytelling format have fueled the trend of lore dropping. It allows individuals to connect and express themselves emotionally, but also raises concerns about the potential negative impact of sharing highly personal information publicly. Despite concerns, the trend reflects a broader shift in the way people share and process personal narratives online. The word "lore" itself has evolved, now conveying emotion and connection, according to Merriam-Webster's editor. However, users caution that shared lore can have lasting consequences and alter one's perspective. Lore serves as a reminder of the power and potential pitfalls of online storytelling, encouraging users to reflect on the impact of their digital disclosures.