Rinse and Repeat
Meaning
Rinse and repeat is an expression, referring to the predictable, monotonous repetition of processes and actions, most commonly appearing in instructions.
- #1 Slang: Can I Get a Hoya?
- #2 Slang: 228922
- #3 Slang: Queen of Spades Tattoo
- #4 Slang: If You Know You Know
- #5 Slang: Negative Ghost Rider
See the 🔝 most used slang terms these days.
Origin
“Rinse and repeat” used to appear on the instructions of several shampoo brands, motivating people to stay stuck in a never ending loop of washing their hair, rinsing then repeating.
The phrase is also used sarcastically as a metaphor to refer to the brainless, slavish behavior, directions often expect from people.
Spread and Usage
In computer science classes the expression is known as the shampoo algorithm and is used as an example for algorithms in the introduction of computer science classes.
The concept of “rinse and repeat” is explored in the 1992 novel of Benjamin Cheever, titled The Plagarist.
External References
- Stackexchange – Etymology of “rinse and repeat”
- Talking with Tami – What Are the Benefits Of “Rinse & Repeat” When Shampooing Your Hair?