Fandom

Keen aficionados of any phenomenon such as authors, hobbies, ideologies, genres or fashions can collectively manifest as fandom. Fans typically are interested in even minor details of the object of their fandom; this is what differentiates them from those with only casual interest. The objects of fandom are typically artistic, sporting or entertainment related. For example, it would not be usual to refer to an accountant who is really interested in the details of accounting to be a "fan" of accounting.

A derogatory term for a member of fandom is "fanboy" or "fangirl".

The term "fandom" is particularly associated with fans of the science fiction and fantasy genres.

Many fans also write fan fiction, stories based around the universe and characters of their chosen fandom.

See also: Science fiction fandom, Furry fandom, Harry Potter fandom, Tolkien fandom