Definition Essay: What Is Cool?

Throughout the high school years of many young students, we make judgements based on the views and perceptions of others. A commonly perceived word is cool. The general perception of cool can be seen as popular, new, and fascinating. The term is commonly used by teenagers and pre-teens. There have been many debates on the exact definition of the word. Physically, it means something chilly or cold. However, at NQHS, cool means something that is fascinating, popular, trendy, and materialistic. At NQHS, cool can be seen everywhere. From sports to academics to clubs, the word can be used to describe almost everything. However, cool is word that has many dimensions. Based on one person’s perspective, what may be cool to them, may be lame to others. For example, at NQHS, there is a craze for bringing coffee to school, especially from P.S. Gourmet. This can be …show more content…
People often confuse it with the word popular. However, popular and cool are two very different terms with different definitions. Something that is cool is always popular, but something that is popular, is not always cool. Cool is an idea agreed upon by many people. Someone who is mean or abusive can be popular, but definitely not cool. Whereas something cool that is liked and well received by many students is always popular. There is no set and fixed definition for cool, because everyone has different perceptions of cool. For example, at NQHS, something that is perceived as cool is JROTC. This program is fascinating and different from all other electives. JROTC has many regulation and exhibition teams, often recognized and agreed upon as cool from regular students at NQHS. This is because not all students know the routines and how to drill, which makes them new and interested to the events. However, for the experienced students in JROTC, who understands the drill routines, it may be less fascinating and cool to them. Cool is perceived as fascinating and