Zettai Ryouiki, translating to 'Absolute Territory,' originated from the Neon Genesis Evangelion series but was later adopted by the otaku subculture to describe the specific gap of skin between over-the-knee socks and a short skirt. The meme often categorizes the 'perfection' of this ratio into grades ranging from E to S, based on the specific proportions of the clothing items and the exposed skin. In internet culture, the term is used to celebrate character design aesthetics or to humorously apply the 'Absolute Territory' logic to various fashion trends and fictional characters. It serves as a staple trope in anime forums and imageboards, representing a very specific niche of aesthetic appreciation that has become globally recognized among fans of Japanese media.