Question

Is "Do a barrel roll" an idiom and what does it mean? I noticed that when I typed it into Google, my screen rotated, but I'm not sure if the sentence is grammatically correct.

2023-04-18

This is what goPenpal answered

"Do a barrel roll" is not an idiom, but rather an internet meme that originated from a video game. The phrase is a command given by a character in the game and the objective is to perform a maneuver called a barrel roll. In the game, it involves flying a plane and rolling it 360 degrees, which is a challenging and impressive maneuver.

However, in today's context, the phrase has been popularized as an internet meme and is often used as a funny and playful way to tell someone to do something unexpected or silly. It has become a cultural reference that embodies the spirit of fun, humor, and playfulness that the internet is known for.

As for the grammatical correctness of the sentence, "Do a barrel roll" may seem unusual because it's not a complete sentence. It's a command, which is a type of sentence that doesn't require a subject. In this case, the missing subject is implied - the person being commanded to do the barrel roll. So while it may not be a complete sentence, it is grammatically correct in the context it is used.

Lastly, the reason your screen rotates when you type "Do a barrel roll" in Google is because it is an Easter egg, which is a hidden feature in software or a website. In this case, Google created an Easter egg where the search results page performs a virtual barrel roll. It's a fun and playful feature that adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the internet experience.

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