The Activation Phrase meme draws its inspiration from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, specifically the 'Winter Soldier' brainwashing sequence where a specific set of code words overrides a character's free will. In the world of internet culture, this concept has been repurposed to represent any situation where a specific phrase, sound, or mention of a niche topic instantly changes someone's behavior or grabs their undivided attention. It perfectly parodies the idea of 'programmed' responses, whether the trigger is a controversial take, a nostalgic reference, or a call to action. It is frequently used in fandom circles to show how easily fans can be 'activated' by news regarding their favorite franchises.