Fanum Tax: What is it? - By Araina

The term “fanum tax” is no stranger to most who frequent TikTok. In one TikTok audio, a user sings, “Sticking out your gyatt for the rizzler, you’re so skibidi, you’re so fanum tax.”

Although the terms rizz and skibidi may be more intuitive, it leads one to question why many are not familiar with the meaning of fanum tax.

These words find their origin from Twitch, a popular streaming platform where users usually share livestreams of themselves playing popular video games. One such streamer is Kai Cenat. With a following of 6.5 million, he’s become the largest streamer on the platform. In fact, Cenat was awarded Streamer of the Year at the 2023 Streamys. He posts himself doing reactions, playing video games, and has even introduced his loyal fans to other fellow streamers.

Another streamer, Fanum, did a giveaway with Cenat where the two gave away PlayStation 5s. Fans gathered in mass for the chance to redeem their very own PS5, helping grow the two celebrities’ platforms.

“Wait fanum is a streamer? So that’s where fanum tax comes from,” you might be wondering. Well, you would be right dear reader!

Often when Cenat or other’s in the group start a stream, Fanum will appear if he sees them eating food. It’s becoming a running bit in the fandom that he will burst in and interrupt the live to take some food. This led to fans coining the term “fanum tax” where streamers must pay tribute to Fanum with nourishment and sustenance.

The term may also have historical roots, alluding to the American Revolution where colonists revolted against British rule because of the kings oppressive taxes. We see this paralleled in streamer culture where Fanum represents King George who taxed the colonies on food like sugar and tea.

The next time you’re eating a tasty treat, be glad Fanum isn’t there. Otherwise you’ll have to pay the fanum tax!


Comments