reaction image

reaction image (plural reaction images)

1. (Internet, formal) An image used in lieu of text, emoticons or emojis to express one's physical reaction or emotional state.
   • 2015, Charlie White, “On <img>”, in Vision Anew: The Lens and Screen Arts, page 222:

     In its most basic form, the reaction image does what its name suggests: it represents the user's response to written or visual information within a conversation thread with other users

   • 2018, Jonathan S. Carter, “Debating Memes: Networked Democracy and the Politics of Cynical Laughter”, in Televised Presidential Debates in a Changing Media Environment:

     A reaction image featuring American comedian and game show host Steve Harvey was used to question the temporary joy felt at the zingers offered by Clinton and Trump.

   • 2019, Giorgia Aiello & Katy Parry, Visual Communication: Understanding Images in Media Culture, SAGE publishing:

     One version of the 'Lonely Theresa May' meme also references the more established 'This is Fine' meme typically used as a reaction image to convey a sense of self-denial 'in the face of a hopeless situation'.

   • 2023, Jieun Kiaer, Emoji Speak: Communication and Behaviours on Social Media, Bloomsbury Publishing:

     Reaction images and gifs are highly prevalent within online fandoms

• reaction gif
• reaction pic (regular usage)

• lolcat