The 'You've Been Gnomed' meme originates from a 2010 animated video featuring a garden gnome named Noggin Clontith, who gleefully declares that he is 'not a gn-elf' or a 'gn-oblin' before shouting the titular phrase. While it existed for years, it skyrocketed to viral status in 2018, primarily through 'bait-and-switch' videos where unsuspecting viewers were suddenly interrupted by the gnome’s high-pitched laugh. It functions similarly to Rickrolling, used to prank streamers and social media users by hiding the gnome behind a seemingly normal link or video intro. Its enduring appeal lies in the absurdity of the character and the satisfaction of successfully 'gnoming' an online community.