Om Nom Nom Nom

2004catchphraseclassic

Published September 18, 2026

Om Nom Nom Nom is an onomatopoeic phrase for the sound of eating, popularized through lolcat image macros in 2007 after originating from Cookie Monster's iconic eating sounds on Sesame Street. The expression became a staple of early internet culture, spreading through single-topic blogs and eventually being immortalized in video games and viral music videos.

catchphrase memeslolcat memeslate 2000s memesonomatopoeia memesfood memes

Overview

Om Nom Nom Nom functions as an onomatopoeic expression for enthusiastic eating, typically captioning images of animals, people, or characters devouring food. The phrase can stand alone or be repeated for comedic effect, with common variations including "nom nom nom," "om nom," and endless chains of "noms"1.

The expression works by suggesting the subject is eating with such gusto that proper etiquette goes out the window. Image macros using the phrase often feature animals mid-bite, characters stuffing their faces, or absurdist scenarios where something unexpected is being "eaten"2. The humor lies in the childlike simplicity of reducing any eating action to this universal sound.

Beyond static images, the phrase became recognizable enough to appear in video games and music. The sound effect carries an inherent silliness that made it perfect for early internet humor, where juvenile wordplay and exaggerated expressions thrived3.

Origin & Background

Platform
Sesame Street / Urban Dictionary (online spread)
Date
2004

The expression traces its roots to Cookie Monster from the children's television series Sesame Street, a character created by American puppeteer Jim Henson in 1966. When devouring plates of cookies, the character would make distinctive eating sounds that listeners interpreted as "om nom nom"2.

The phrase first appeared in its internet form on Urban Dictionary on December 19, 2004, submitted by users Tom and Jana. They defined "om nom" as an onomatopoeic adjective describing the sound emitted when something is "oh so tasty" that one eats it without regard to cleanliness or etiquette1.

How It Spread

How to Use This Meme

The phrase typically captions photos or videos where someone or something is eating. Add "nom nom nom" or "om nom nom" to any image of enthusiastic food consumption. Repeat the phrase for extra comedic effect. The format works best with animals, cartoon characters, or humans caught mid-bite. You can also use variations like "nom nom nom nooo" to suggest the food is being taken away.

Frequently Asked Questions