Nani, often used in informal conversations, is a term derived from the Japanese word for "what." It is commonly employed to express surprise, confusion, or to seek clarification about something that has been said. The term is frequently heard in anime and manga, where characters might exclaim "Nani?!" in response to unexpected events. In addition to its use in Japanese culture, "nani" has gained popularity in internet memes and social media, where it is often humorously used to react to shocking or absurd situations. This has contributed to its recognition beyond Japan, making it a part of global pop culture.