what does stan mean?

TLDR: The term "stan" originated from Eminem's 2000 song about an obsessed fan and has evolved to describe extremely devoted fans. While it can foster community, it also risks toxic behaviors.

The term "stan" comes from Eminem's 2000 song of the same name, which tells the story of an obsessed fan. Initially, it had a negative connotation, referring to extreme and sometimes aggressive fandom. However, it has since evolved into a more casual term for someone who is an extremely enthusiastic and devoted fan. As a noun, it describes this type of fan, while as a verb, it means to support someone to an excessive degree, such as saying, "I stan for Adele."

"Stan culture" encompasses the behaviors of these intense fandoms, which can lead to both positive community-building and negative outcomes like harassment. While stans can significantly influence the success of artists through their collective actions, it's essential to recognize the potential for unhealthy obsession. Overall, the term reflects the complex dynamics between celebrities and their fans, highlighting both the sense of belonging it can create and the risks of toxicity it may entail.