What is clout?

"Clout" is a slang term with a few related meanings, all revolving around influence, power, and social standing. Here's a breakdown:

• Social Media Clout: This is the most common modern usage. It refers to the level of influence or popularity a person has on social media platforms. Someone with "clout" has a large following, high engagement (likes, comments, shares), and the ability to sway opinions or drive trends. This influence can be leveraged for various purposes, like marketing, advocacy, or simply garnering attention.

• General Influence and Power: More broadly, clout refers to the power or influence a person has within a particular group or society. This could be due to their social status, wealth, reputation, or connections. For example, a celebrity might have significant clout, as might a powerful CEO or a respected community leader.

• Street Cred (Informal): In some contexts, especially in hip-hop culture, clout can be synonymous with "street cred," or the respect and recognition one earns through their actions and reputation, often within a specific subculture.

The meaning of clout often depends on the context. While it can be a positive attribute signifying respect and influence, it can also carry negative connotations when used to describe someone wielding their power in an unfair or manipulative way. The term is generally informal.