NPC stands for "Non-Player Character". The term originates from video games and refers to characters that are controlled by the games artificial intelligence (AI) rather than by actual players. In video games, NPCs are characters that are not controlled by the player and are usually non-aggressive or unable to fight. They typically just repeat canned lines from a script.

On social media, "NPC" is often used as a metaphor or meme to describe someone who blindly follows popular opinion without critical thinking. It implies that the person in question conforms to societal or political ideologies without questioning or expressing unique viewpoints. Often, NPC-like behavior is that which conforms to social norms, perhaps to an extreme extent. In slang terms, an NPC is someone who doesn’t think for themselves or behaves very predictably.

It is important to note that the use of "NPC" as an insult or derogatory term can be divisive and can contribute to unproductive online interactions. It is always advisable to engage in respectful and constructive dialogue when discussing differing opinions or viewpoints on social media.