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of Gen Z's move toward authenticity and boundary-setting—where emotional labor isn't automatically performed to meet outdated norms.

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

Current reports that Gen-Z and Millennials prioritize financial health over looks in romantic partners, valuing good credit and savings.

Millennials had RBF (resting b—h face) and Gen Z, apparently, has the “stare,” which is basically a blank, awkward look that Gen Z gives to people who are being audacious, acting too much, or being downright ridiculous.

As 38-year-old millennials become the new face of homeownership, unemployed and debt-ridden Gen Z may have to wait even longer to get on the ladder. Boomers hold the keys to their real estate success.

Gen Z and Millennials are revolutionizing South Africa’s insurance industry with digital demands and new needs. Explore the shift with GIB’s Alain Nathan’s insights

While 59 percent of millennials said they would prioritize a "broke and magical" relationship over financial security, only 54 of Gen Z said the same.

A somewhat friendly (and entirely silly) debate is raging on the internet about what is being called the "Gen Z stare." It refers to a phenomenon observed in some young people who seemingly go catatonic when faced with social situations that require small talk.