Gatekeep
what it means
Refusing to name the shop, the artist or the recipe. It's criticised as elitist and defended as protecting something small from being ruined by scale.
Deliberately withholding information about something to keep it from spreading.
the origin story
The sociological term entered internet vocabulary through fandom disputes in the 2010s, then broadened considerably.
Originally an accusation — gatekeeping fans out of a hobby — it later acquired a half-serious defence, as people watched small businesses and quiet places get overwhelmed by viral attention. "Gatekeep" is now used approvingly about as often as critically.
in the wild
Where did you get that jacket?
Gatekeeping. Sorry.
Why won't anyone name the restaurant?
Because it'll have a two-hour queue next week.
how to use it
- Joking about not sharing a source
- Discussing viral attention overwhelming small places
- Fandom conversations
- To exclude people from a hobby or community
- About information people genuinely need
- Professionally
related terms
receipts
Community feedback
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