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How Travis Scott Helped ‘Fein’ Dominate the Internet
“Fein” is a slang word used to describe someone intensely addicted to substances. It has been a part of Black community vernacular for years, but gained mass attention after Travis Scott and Playboi Carti dropped their hit song titled “FE!N.” That track exploded on TikTok, fueling countless trends. If you're unsure about its meaning or roots, this article covers everything — from its history to alternate definitions and cultural significance.
What does “fein” mean in street slang?
In slang, “fein” is used to describe someone who’s intensely hooked on substances and might go to extreme lengths to obtain them. The term was catapulted into pop culture by Travis Scott and Playboi Carti with their multi-Platinum track “FE!N.”
How to Understand the Term
What does the slang word “fein” actually mean?
Fein describes someone heavily addicted to a substance. Used as a noun, “fein” refers to a person deeply consumed by their addiction, often resorting to extreme behavior to satisfy it. For instance, someone constantly pestering you for your vape might be labeled a fein.
What are the roots of the term “fein”?
Fein is an AAVE adaptation of the word fiend, made mainstream by Travis Scott and Playboi Carti. This slang has been used in the Black community for years, and it hit the mainstream when Travis Scott and Playboi Carti released the song “FE!N” in July 2023 on Scott’s album Utopia. The hit song, now 3x Platinum, became the album’s standout track.
- The term “fein” first appeared online as early as 2005.
- During the Circus Maximus tour, Travis Scott famously performed “FE!N” multiple times in one show — once doing it 10 times in a row during a Brooklyn concert.
- On July 12, 2024, TikTok user @jimmy02_ went viral with a clip of himself at a concert singing “FE!N,” inspiring a trend where fans sang the chorus in an Elvis-style voice.
How is the word “fein” used on social media?
Online, “fein” is widely used to reference Travis Scott’s song. The term pops up in clips of Scott’s live performances and fan-made edits. A popular TikTok trend shows someone saying “I hope they play Fein” at an unrelated event, only to be dismissed — followed by a humorous cut to the song actually being performed.
- On October 2, 2024, @2b.hlwweiz shared a TikTok where she said, “I hope they play Fein!” Her friend replied, “Bro, we are in math class,” before the video cut to their teacher chanting, “Fein! Fein! Fein! Fein!”
Other Definitions of “Fein”
FEIN also stands for Federal Employer Identification Number. Issued by the IRS, this nine-digit number identifies businesses in the U.S. for tax purposes. Think of it as your company’s version of a Social Security number — it’s used for everything from tax filing to official documentation.
In Ireland, “fein” can refer to Irish nationalists. The term is linked to Sinn Fein, a political group advocating for full independence from Britain and the reunification of Ireland, particularly focusing on Northern Ireland’s return to Irish governance.
