We break down what AFK means for players who are unaware. As someone who streams and watches gaming content a lot, the term is very common. However, many that see the phrase may not be used to gaming.
But, with gaming terminology on the rise, it can be useful to know what some words mean. Therefore, we have been curating articles that showcase the meaning of many terms. In this guide, we aim to show what the gaming term AFK means. Furthermore, we provide uses for it and examples. By doing so, we aim to provide readers who are unfamiliar with the term, to gain knowledge in it. The goal is that when coming across these ever-growing popular terms, you will know what they mean. Below are the details on the word.
What Does “AFK” Mean in Gaming & Streaming?
The term “AFK” is the short form of Away From Keyboard. Originally the term comes from PC players meaning they are physically stepping away from their keyboards. As the keyboard is primarily used on a PC, players were notifying others they would be taking a break or would be right back. The term has not transcended to players on consoles using it. For example, I also say I am AFK even when I am playing on a PS5 and using a controller. It is a universal term now with the same meaning albeit, with different gaming inputs.
The term is even officially recognized in dictionaries, more specifically the Cambridge Dictionary. There, it provides the following definition: “AFK” is the written abbreviation for away from keyboard: used when you stop taking part in a discussion in a chat room for a short time.
How to Use “AFK” & Different Examples
The term “AFK” is used to notify that you are leaving for a short time. If you are playing with others in a party chat, saying “I will be AFK for a few minutes” is acceptable. Therefore you are letting other players know and they can wait to play or chat until you are back.
Additionally, these are some of the following examples you may see the term being used in:
- “I will be AFK for a few minutes, I am going to eat dinner.”
- “I lost the match in Fortnite because I went AFK, afterward one of the players found me and downed me while I was gone.”
- “Helldivers 2 has added a new feature in its latest patch. If players are AFK for too long, they will be kicked. They do this so they can allow other players to join games who are actively playing.”
- “Hey, their character is just standing still in the game. I think that they may be AFK currently.”
The term is one of the most popular in gaming. Anyone from general video game players to streamers uses it as a quick method of saying they are leaving for a short time. In some cases, some say it even if they are leaving for longer amounts of time.
Now you know what AFK does mean. Additionally, its uses and the different examples of how you may see it in gaming and other means. Next time you are playing with friends or even just chatting, make sure to use it. Now you will have the ability to impress them with having the new term under your belt.
