Teen Slang · Online & texting

What does “Fanfic / Fanfiction” mean?

Fan-written stories using existing characters or real people. Hugely popular in fandom spaces. 'I read a fanfic about them.'

Where “Fanfic / Fanfiction” comes from

Decades-old fan tradition that thrives on sites like Wattpad, AO3, and Tumblr.

Why teens actually say it

It's a creative outlet and a way to connect with fellow fans.

What it means for you as a parent

Mostly creative and social, but some fanfic is mature/explicit. Worth knowing what platforms and tags your teen follows.

How it’s used

  • “I stayed up reading fanfic about my favorite characters.” Happily lost in fan-written stories. Cozy fandom joy.
  • “Someone wrote a whole fanfic where they end up together.” Sharing a fan story excitedly. Invested and delighted.

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