Teen Slang · Online & texting

What does “AF” mean?

'As f---,' an emphatic intensifier. 'Tired AF.'

Where “AF” comes from

Texting shorthand used since the early 2010s; ubiquitous now.

Why teens actually say it

Adds heavy emphasis fast without spelling out a swear.

What it means for you as a parent

Contains a hidden swear. Usually just emphasis.

How it’s used

  • “I’m tired AF, I need to sleep.” Emphatic way to stress how strongly they feel something. Casual.
  • “That movie was boring AF.” Intensifier driving home a strong opinion. Blunt and offhand.

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