In 2011 the song lyrics “Gucci Gucci, Loui Loui, Fendi Fendi, Prada. Basic b****es wear that shit so I don't even botha,” were sung and the term “basic” was born.   

As defined by Urban Dictionary, the term basic can mean “Noun referring to 'basic b****es.' Basic's are the typical girl that thinks they are cool because they're artsy, can make a duck face, carry around coffee cups, and wear designer brands.” Most people consider upper-middle class white girls, only girls, who wear Uggs and leggings, enjoy Pumpkin Spice Lattes and wine, and uploading endless photos to Instagram as being basic.    

Ultimately, “basic” is a stereotype, just like “hipster” or “ratchet.” It is used to overgeneralize an audience based on what they were and what they like to do. But what are we really trying to say when we call someone basic? Basic rolls off the tongue easily; it can be easier than using harsher words to describe people. Moreso, people use basic when they are trying to make fun of something. By calling someone else basic there can’t be any way you are basic.   

So what if you monogram the crap out of objects? It's your name, do what you want with it. Who cares if you don’t want to put on real pants and go with leggings and Uggs? You do you. And if you like to spend hours on Pinterest, pinning to your wedding board? Fine, that’s up to you. None of the usual qualities it takes to be basic make you any less of an interesting person.     

TIME Magazine composed a list of words that should be banned in 2015 and of course basic made the list. I agree with it, basic has become basic. The word has exhausted its stereotypical meaning. Stop reading Buzzfeed articles about things only basic girls will understand. Stop taking quizzes to see if OMG are you literally the like definition of basic. Be confident enough in yourself to enjoy all things Pumpkin Spice.