Millennials and Gen X have taken to TikTok to call out the "Gen Z stare," when a Gen Z worker seems to be rudely unresponsive to a question or ask. However, Gen Z users have a different take and are defending the mannerism.

Now, to be fair to zoomers, a few weeks ago there were a few posts — and a write-up from the New York Post, naturally — complaining about the Gen Z "gaze" from service workers. That's seemingly related to the "stare" debate now, but it's certainly evolved.

Now, the latest topic sparking debate is the Gen Z stare. Users are taking to TikTok to share their reasons for dishing out the facial expression, what it’s like to be on the receiving end of the stare and why this blank, unbothered look is so distinctly Gen Z.

Banarsë compared it to the "Millennial Pause," a brief moment of silence before speaking in a video, adding that today's social quirks go viral more quickly. Banarsë added that the stare is part of Gen Z's move toward authenticity and boundary-setting—where emotional labor isn't automatically performed to meet outdated norms.

In case you're confused about TikTok's latest term, 'gen Z stare', we explain exactly what it is and why you might cop one.

When asked to vote on a generic ballot for 2026, older Gen Z and younger millennial voters, ages 22-29, backed Democrats by a 6-point majority. But younger Gen Z voters, ages 18-21, backed Republicans by nearly 12 percentage points.

Gen Z is increasingly choosing to take on multiple jobs. Some creators are going a step further and posting about their side hustles on TikTok.

What is the "Gen Z Stare?" Older TikTok users say that Gen Z workers often give blank, unresponsive stares. Gen Zers are pushing back.