As a gesture rather than an expression, the mic drop has been around since the 1980s, a gimmick often used by comedians and rappers. The term today, however, largely owes its recognition to Obama who, by employing the technique in various high-profile scenarios since 2012, has steadily helped bring it under the popular radar.

As a gesture rather than an expression, the mic drop has been around since the 1980s, a gimmick often used by comedians and rappers. The term today, however, largely owes its recognition to Obama who, by employing the technique in various high-profile scenarios since 2012, has steadily helped bring it under the popular radar.