Icibos, a Meme That Became Slang
Maybe a lot Vicigers Here, we often encounter the term "icibos" during casual coffee meetings. However, many still don't understand its true meaning.
So, does it have a pejorative meaning, or is it the opposite? So, to keep you from getting even more curious, let's take a look at the detailed explanation below!
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The Booming “Icibos” Trend
Before we get to the main discussion about the meaning of the word, it's a good idea to first review the source of this trend's fame and how it finally went viral, guys.
After investigating, it turns out that this word can be popular thanks to the "help" of content and the For Your Page algorithm (FYP) from the number one short-form video platform today. Yep, what else if not TikTok!
No one knows for certain which account or content created the first "icibos" video. However, it's certainly possible that the term gained momentum there.
Gradually, this turned into a widespread meme phenomenon and is now “infectious” to various streaming platforms and other mainstream social media.
So it's natural that this trend has also spread to the gaming scene. The trend there is inextricably linked to the digital ecosystem, including... YouTube, Instagram, etc.
The Origin of the Word "Icibos"
If we go back further, "icibos" itself doesn't just mean FYP TikTok. Originally, this term was a foreign language and came from a foreign country.
That's right, in the early decades of the 21st century, Malaysian cartoons boomed. And of the many that rose to fame, this particular title is the origin: Boboiboy.
Who doesn't know this cartoon? With its various transformative and elemental powers, it's a favorite of many children and even adults.
Well, there is a side character named Probe who is Adudu's accomplice as the main antagonist. They are both enemies of the protagonist Boboiboy.
As a robot that Adudu created to be his subordinate, Probe has a unique nickname that he uses to address his superior – what else but “icibos”.
Derived from a combination of two words: “ici” comes from the word “incik” which means “uncle” or “uncle”, and “boss” (“boss”) – this term is commonly used in the Malaysian business climate.
Instead of looking like futuristic aliens and robots, the two of them are more like a couple of clerks and shop owners: a setting with a strong comedic element to them.
And as the cartoon's popularity peaked, the term became increasingly used as a joke in various circles – including Indonesian netizens.
Shifting Meaning
As the term's use has expanded across platforms, its meaning has evolved, adapting to different contexts. This is particularly true in the gaming world.
Instead of having a comedic nuance like in the cartoon, the term “icibos” has become a form of flattery for those who appear to have abundant in-game content assets.
Well, it has a similar meaning to the term "sultan," but with a more childish twist. However, this doesn't necessarily apply universally to all online games.
In some titles, this term has a more nuanced meaning. Unlike the neutral "sultan," "icibos" can have a derogatory connotation.
In essence, gamers use this term to refer to "sultans" (who have lots of skins, characters, and other in-game collections), but with minimal skills, aka noobs/newbies.
So, if in the future there are players who "call" you by that name, make sure that the game you are playing adheres to the above understanding, and of course, reflect on your gameplay as well.
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That concludes our discussion of the term "icibos." If you found this article helpful, don't forget to share it on social media and with your friends!
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