What does “Troll” mean in the context of social media?

A Troll is someone who engages in online behavior meant to provoke, disrupt, or upset others for personal amusement or attention. This can include leaving inflammatory comments, spreading misinformation, or starting arguments with the sole intention of eliciting a reaction. Trolls may hide behind anonymity, using social media platforms to attack or criticize individuals, groups, or ideas without contributing constructively to discussions.

While some trolling is lighthearted and intended as a joke, more often, it is malicious and designed to cause emotional distress or anger.

Example

He’s just a troll trying to get a rise out of people in the comments section.

What are ways to handle a “Troll” on social media?

If you encounter a Troll online, it’s often best to ignore them, as responding can fuel their desire for attention. Many social platforms have features to block, report, or mute trolls to protect your online experience. In some cases, addressing the issue calmly or with humor can defuse the situation, but engaging with a troll rarely leads to a productive conversation.

Being aware of Troll behavior can help you maintain a positive online presence and avoid getting dragged into unnecessary conflicts.

Pro Tip

Avoid feeding the Troll. Engaging with them usually rewards their behavior. Use platform tools like blocking or reporting to remove negativity from your feeds.