Feen for Something: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
June 29, 2023

The idiom "feen for something" is primarily used to express an intense craving or desire for something, be it a tangible item or a less tangible concept such as a feeling or experience. It conveys a sense of urgency and necessity, often indicating that the subject feels a strong need for the object of their "feening."

In short:

"Feen for something" a strong desire, craving, or obsession for something.

What Does "Feen for Something" Mean?

The idiom "feen for something" is mostly used in informal conversations and refers to a strong desire, craving, or obsession for something or someone. This term is often associated with addiction, as someone who "feens" for something can behave as if they are compelled to seek it out. It is important to recognize the difference between a healthy passion and an unhealthy obsession, as the latter can lead to negative consequences and interfere with a person's daily life.

  • Craving: A powerful desire for something.
  • Addiction: The fact or condition of being addicted to a particular substance or activity.
  • Obsession: An idea or thought that continually preoccupies or intrudes on a person's mind.

Where Does "Feen for Something" Come From?

The term "feen for something" is a colloquial phrase originating from African-American Vernacular English (AAVE) in the United States. To "feen for something" means to intensely crave or desire it, often with connotations of addiction. The exact origins of this idiom need to be well-documented, making it challenging to pinpoint its inception accurately. The word "feen" appears to be a phonetic spelling derived from "fiend," which traditionally means an evil spirit or demon but, in more modern usage, can refer to a person who is excessively fond of or addicted to something.

Historical Example

"I used to feel for the crack pipe." 

- Ice Cube, "Once Upon a Time in the Projects" (1990)

10 Examples of "Feen for Something" in Sentences

The following examples demonstrate how the idiom "feen for something" can be used in various sentences:

  • While I've been feening for a taste of that famous New York pizza, my bad for not realizing you had already eaten all the slices.
  • He feens for that adrenaline rush every time he goes skydiving.
  • She feens for chocolate, always needing a piece after dinner.
  • Even though John tried to present himself as content with the same old routine, everyone could tell he had a feen for something more exciting and adventurous in his life.
  • When Billy lost his job, he found himself in a fix as he began to feel for something that could give him the same sense of purpose and satisfaction.
  • As a workaholic, Maria really feens for success and approval from her superiors.
  • Jake feens for his daily workout and never misses a day at the gym.
  • The concert made her realize how much she feened for live music.
  • After losing his job, John began to feel for something as comforting as his old routine, but he knew he had to roll over and adapt to a new lifestyle.
  • He was a social media addict, constantly feening for likes and comments on his posts.

Examples of "Feen for Something" in Pop Culture

Beyond everyday conversation, "feen for something" also appears in various forms within pop culture:

  • Feenin' by Jodeci - A 1993 song about a longing for love or desire.
  • Handgun (feat. A$AP Rocky) by Da$h - The lyric "I feel for that lean..." expresses a craving for the drug.
  • Hypnotize by Notorious B.I.G. - The song references women who "feen for the living.".
  • Feenin' by Rapsody - The track discusses a deep desire for love and a powerful connection with someone.
  • Dopesick Blues by Griffin - The line "I'm feeling for the drugs in my veins" describes a powerful addiction.
  • In the movie Half Baked, the character Thurgood mentions that he is "feening" for a joint.
  • Can't Hardly Wait by 5th Ward Weebie - A song chronicling an intense craving for the weekend and relaxation.
  • Feenin by Lyrica Anderson - The singer describes her intense desire for someone in her life.
  • Netflix show Stranger Things character Dustin declares: "Man am I_ feenin for some new Dungeons & Dragons content. "
  • In Breaking Bad, Jesse Pinkman often says phrases like "I'm not just feenin" for that blue meth
  • During an interview with Oprah Winfrey, Michael Jordan stated: "I wasn't really feedin' for another championship ring; I was more so feedin' to beat Magic (Johnson).

Other Ways to Say "Feen for Something" in Sentences

There are several alternative expressions that convey a similar meaning to "feen for something."

Some of these include:

  • She was craving a slice of chocolate cake.
  • John was longing for a vacation after months of working non-stop.
  • They yearned for the satisfaction of completing the project.
  • He lusted after the new car he saw at the dealership.
  • She ached for the chance to be with her long-distance partner.
  • We hungered for knowledge, always eager to learn more.
  • Mary was desirous of a promotion at work.
  • The athlete thirsted for victory in the competition.
  • He was obsessed with perfecting his art.
  • She coveted her neighbor's luxurious lifestyle.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Feen for Something"

  • What is the origin of "feen for something?"

The term "feen" is derived from the word "fiend" meaning someone who is addicted or obsessed with something. This evolved to "feen for something" to describe a strong longing or obsession.

  • Is "feen for something" a formal or informal expression?

"Feen for something" is an informal expression, often used in casual conversations.

  • Can "feen for something" be used in a positive context?

Yes, "feen for something" can be used in a positive context to describe a strong passion or interest in something or someone, but it's essential to differentiate between a healthy passion and an unhealthy obsession.

  • Is "feen for something" only associated with addiction?

While the term is often associated with addiction, it can also refer to a strong desire or craving for non-addictive activities or objects.

  • Is "feen" an abbreviation of something?

No, "feen" is not an abbreviation but rather a slang variation of the word "fiend."

  • What does "fiend" mean in modern slang?

In modern slang, "fiend" refers to someone addicted to or obsessed with a particular activity or object.

  • What is the difference between "feen" and "fiend"?

"Feen" and "fiend" have similar meanings in slang, but "feen" is specifically used to describe the act of craving or obsession, while "fiend" is used to describe a person with such an obsession.

  • What is the opposite of "feen for something"?

The opposite of "feen for something" would be phrases such as "no interest in," "disinterested in," or "indifferent to."

  • Can I use "feen for something" as a verb?

Yes, you can use "feen" as a verb, but you should be sure to include the preposition "for" along with the object of the craving or desire.

  • Can "feen for something" refer to a person's longing for another person?

Yes, "feen for something" can also refer to a person's longing for another person, whether in the context of love, desire, or friendship.

Final Thoughts About "Feen for Something"

The idiom "feen for something" can help enrich our everyday language. "feen for something" is an informal yet versatile expression that can be used to describe strong desires, cravings, or obsessions of varying nature. Understanding and using this slang idiom can add depth, personality, and relatability to your conversational skills.

Key aspects of the phrase "feen for something":

  • Feen for something: A strong desire, craving, or obsession for something
  • Origin: Derived from the word "fiend," referring to someone who is addicted or obsessed
  • Usage: Informal, often used in casual conversations
  • Positive and negative contexts: Can be used to describe healthy passions or unhealthy obsessions

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