VERY DEMURE : A popular TikTok phrase

  The word 'Demure' originated from the Old French word 'demurer,' meaning 'to remain' or 'to stay.' It is derived from the Latin words 'demorari' (to delay or linger) and 'moderare' (to moderate or restrain). Initially, 'demure' entered Middle English in the 14th century, explaining the idea of remaining calm and composed. By the 15th century, its meaning expanded to include modesty and humility.

The word 'demure' has been part of the English language for centuries, with roots tracing back to Old French and Latin. This adjective has evolved over time, taking on various meanings and connotations.

The word 'Demure' suddenly gained popularity on TikTok when the phenomenal TikToker, Jools Lebron, posted a video about her low-key makeup, saying, 'See how I come to work? Very demure.' Her video from later that day, 'How to be demure at work,' went viral and now has over five million views. 'The way I came to the interview is the way I go to the job,' she explains. 'A lot of you girls go to the interview looking like Marge Simpson and go to the job looking like Patty and Selma. Not demure.'

In the vast expanse of social media, few creators have managed to captivate audiences with their unapologetic humor, sharp commentary, and inspiring storytelling. Jools Lebron, a talented TikToker, has emerged as a trailblazer, leveraging her platform to share powerful narratives, challenge societal norms, and empower her community. Her TikTok followers have increased significantly since the video.

 Random students were asked about their views on the sudden popularity of 'Demure' among youths.

 Kazeem Aishat Imole, a 400-level Law student from ESCAE University Benin, said she heard the word 'Demure' while watching TikTok reels. She admitted she didn't bother checking the dictionary, saying, 'I don’t see anything demure about me.' She later added, 'Well, when I heard the word, I thought it meant being modest, but later, when I watched my reel and they used it, I started thinking it can also mean presentable and outspoken.'

 A graduate of Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, Leah Adegoke, said she learned the word 'Demure' from a Facebook video by Teacher Blessing, a Facebook content creator. She continued, 'I don't actually know what's special about the word the way youths are using it, but it's okay. I think that's because we're fond of following trends without checking the reason behind every word.'

Oduola Gbolahan, another graduate of Harvard College of Science, Business, and Management Studies, said he learned about 'Demure' from a book. He uses it in conversations to compliment ladies. In his statement, he said, 'There's nothing really special about it; it's just a normal word that has been in existence for a long time. It gained attention in the social media space recently.' When asked why 'Demure' became so common among Gen Z youths, he said it's because this generation always wants to follow trends.

Sanni-Owo Kolade, a 400-level Law student at Olabisi Onabanjo University, said he learned the word from social media. He claims the sudden usage sounds weird, so he's never attempted to use it in conversation.

The above comments from students show how Gen Z's creative language redefinition reflects their desire for self-expression. The word 'Demure' now has multiple meanings. Although it has existed for a long time, Jools Lebron made it worth using in everyday communication."