The term "clanker" — a derogatory nickname for robots and AI — has moved beyond science fiction to become a symbol of cultural skepticism in 2025. It first appeared as a slur against droids in the Star Wars universe and was popularized in games and media. In 2025, the word went viral: it is used on TikTok, discussed in the media, and was even mentioned in the US Congress. This reflects a growing negative perception of AI: people fear automation, job loss, and the aloofness of technology. Although the word sounds like an insult, linguists classify it more as a derogatory term rather than a classic "slur."
How "Clanker" Became the Main Anti-AI Slogan of 2025
