Gen Z stare, a new generational trend is trending on social media as videos shared spark humor and heated debate across age groups.
The “Gen Z stare” has been described as a blank, deadpan expression given by the Gen Z in response to simple greetings or questions they face.
Videos going viral on social media show youngsters giving a silent reaction from youngsters leaving people from older generations clueless and puzzled.
Gen Z is a term use to categorize people born between 1997 and 2009 .
the gen z stare pic.twitter.com/bZjjoMmbh4
— the ghost of jacob marli (@greatlaeks) July 16, 2025
What Is the ‘Gen Z Stare’ That Is Trending Worldwide?
The term “Gen Z stare” refers to the expressionless, wordless response that has become a common theme in online skits. It usually happens in customer service settings, where a Gen Z cashier or customer answers a question not with words, but with an empty stare – particularly when faced with an illogical or unnecessary query.
“The Gen Z stare” pic.twitter.com/xD6Njc7WLI
— Scott Seiss (@ScottSeiss) July 18, 2025
The gen z dead stare is not restricted to office spaces only. The youngsters may useit in other situations as well. It has quickly gained traction and became a talking point across generations, triggering debate about the changing social norms and value system.
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Why Is Gen Z Stare Trend Stirring Debate?
The trend has ignited conversation beyond social media. Some Gen Z workers have defended the behavior, particularly those in retail and service roles.
According to some Gen Z people, the stare has meaning beyond humor. It can also social anxiety a person is undergoing. Some even see it as a coping mechanism in troubling situations.
Has Gen Z Stare Born Out of Generational Differences?
This isn’t the first time generational differences have played out in distinctive social behaviors, especially in the digital era.
People who are born between 1981 and 1996 also called as millennials for example are often associated with the “millennial pause.” This refers to the brief moment theyuse to take before speaking in a video to make sure the camera has started recording. This is a habit that hwas born out of the traditional video technology when apps weren’t as responsive.
Similarly those born between 1946 and 1964 also known as baby boomers – are known for signing off text messages as if they were writing formal letters or mails. They use formal phrases like “Love, Mom” or “Best regards .”
Is There a Deeper Reason Behind the Gen Z Stare?
Research suggests there might be more to the stare than just a meme. A 2023 survey from the National Association of Colleges and Employers found that nearly 90% of graduates avoided in-person events due to social anxiety. Additionally, almost 25% reported feeling uncomfortable speaking up in team meetings.
Social anxiety isn’t limited to the workplace as people can experience it any social sphere. A survey by British restaurant chain Prezzo revealed that 34% of respondents aged 18 to 24 said they felt too nervous to speak to waitstaff when dining out. Instead, they asked the person accompanying them to order on their behalf. Many viral videos featuring the Gen Z stare reference this specific behavior—avoiding direct communication with service workers.
Zubair Amin is a Senior Journalist at NewsX with over seven years of experience in reporting and editorial work. He has written for leading national and international publications, including Foreign Policy Magazine, Al Jazeera, The Economic Times, The Indian Express, The Wire, Article 14, Mongabay, News9, among others. His primary focus is on international affairs, with a strong interest in US politics and policy. He also writes on West Asia, Indian polity, and constitutional issues. Zubair tweets at zubaiyr.amin
