Fannish slang is the shorthand science fiction fans developed to describe their own culture. It includes jokes, acronyms, insults, compliments, publishing terms, convention language, and words for kinds of participation that ordinary English did not name very well.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| APA | Amateur press association |
| Apazine | A contribution to an APA mailing |
| Egoboo | Ego boost or fannish recognition |
| Fanac | Fannish activity |
| Faned | Fanzine editor |
| Gafia | Withdrawal from fandom |
| Neofan | New fan |
| Prodom | The professional side of science fiction |
| Sercon | Serious and constructive |
| Trufan | Deeply committed or authentic fan |
Why Fans Created So Much Slang
Fandom needed words for things fans did constantly: publish, comment, volunteer, burn out, return, seek recognition, argue seriously, joke absurdly, and distinguish fan culture from the outside world. Slang made those experiences portable.
How to Read Fannish Terms
Many terms are context-sensitive. A word can be affectionate in one fanzine and cutting in another. When researching fan history, look at date, author, publication, and tone before assuming a single meaning.
For fuller definitions, use the Science Fiction Fandom Glossary.
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