The Screaming Seagull meme features a sequence of images showing a seagull inhaling deeply before letting out a massive, open-mouthed squawk. This format originates from a 2012 YouTube video of a seagull making a 'laughing' sound, but it didn't reach peak popularity until 2017 when users began adding captions representing lyrics or intense, loud opinions. It is widely used to illustrate the buildup to a dramatic realization or a passionate outburst, often mimicking a singer reaching a high note or someone losing their cool.