If you’ve ever been on Twitch or hung out in gaming communities, you’ve probably seen or heard of KEKW. Wondering what it means? Don’t worry—you’re not alone!
This guide will explain everything you need to know about KEKW, from its origin to why it’s become a global sensation among gamers.
The Origin of KEKW
KEKW traces back to Twitch’s vibrant emote culture, which has brought us classics like Pogchamp, MonkaS, and LUL. But what makes KEKW special is its connection to Juan Joya Borja, a beloved Spanish comedian known for his infectious laugh. In a viral YouTube video,
Borja’s uncontrollable laughter captivated millions, even though most people couldn’t understand his words. His laugh was so unique and contagious that it became an internet template for adding subtitles and creating memes.
Who Created KEKW?
No one knows for sure who first used the KEKW emote. Some claim streamers like AdmiralBulldog and xQc introduced it, but its popularity quickly spread across Twitch. The emote captured the gaming community’s sense of humor, symbolizing uncontrollable laughter.
Breaking Down KEKW
What does KEKW mean? It’s a fusion of “KEK” (the Korean version of LOL) and “W,” a Twitch suffix often added to emotes to enhance their expression. Together, KEKW perfectly captures the essence of hysterical laughter. In the gaming world, KEK also has roots in World of Warcraft, where it represents LOL when translated between opposing factions.
Why Is KEKW So Popular?
KEKW gained traction in August 2019, becoming one of the top 15 Twitch emotes. Thanks to streamers and meme creators, it quickly replaced older laughter emotes like LUL and ROFL. Whenever something ridiculously funny happens, KEKW is the go-to reaction for gamers and viewers alike.
How to Pronounce KEKW?
Most people pronounce it as “keh-kuh-wah,” but some simplify it to “keh-kwuh.” However, there’s no wrong way to say it—just expect playful debates about the “correct” pronunciation!
How to Use KEKW on Twitch?
Want to join the fun? Adding KEKW to your Twitch channel is super simple:
- Download the BTTV (BetterTTV) extension.
- Add KEKW to your emote library.
- Use it by typing “KEKW” in the chat.
The Legacy of Juan Joya Borja
The man behind the KEKW meme, Juan Joya Borja—affectionately known as “El Risitas”—was adored for his larger-than-life personality. He passed away in April 2021, but his laughter continues to brighten the internet, immortalized through the KEKW emote.
The Future of KEKW
Just like LOL evolved into LUL and OMEGALUL, KEKW is bound to inspire creative variations. Whether it’s KEKWow or KEKWhat, this emote will remain a cornerstone of internet culture for years to come.
With KEKW, laughter truly knows no language barriers. So the next time something cracks you up on Twitch, let KEKW do the talking!