Another inter-generational spat has broken out online over the sometimes blank expressions put forward by the younger generation.

The phrase is causing multigenerational chatter on TikTok — but its meaning is not as straightforward as it seems.

The emotionless expression teens and young adults sometimes make if someone inconveniences them by saying “hi,” tries to engage in small talk with them, or tries to take their food order finally has a name: the Gen Z stare.

According to teens, the Gen Z stare is just one generation misunderstanding another. Sound familiar? The concept of a Gen Z stare has recently gained attention on TikTok as millennials, Gen X, and boomers take aim at a perceived lack of etiquette in the Zoomer generation.

You just asked me if we sell pizza.” A coffee shop worker recalled a customer asking her to explain the difference between iced and hot. Of course we're going to stare. What is there to say when you’re being asked inane questions while earning minimum wage?

The trend follows other generational behaviours like the "millennial pause" and baby boomers - those born between 1946 and 1964 - signing texts like letters.