A long-growing slang term is inspiring a whole lot of discourse on TikTok and Twitter, and it's got some people accusing others of being racist.

The term is "Black fatigue," and it's being used as a criticism of Black people and how "tired" some white people supposedly are of certain members of the Black community.

So what exactly does "Black fatigue" mean, and is it racist to use the term? Here's what you need to know.

@hoecheeminh and this “never mix” shi, we going backwards yall #fyp #foryou #racism #blackpink ♬ original sound – Aura

What Does 'Black Fatigue' Mean?

While its exact origins are unclear, the term "Black fatigue" has been popping up online since as early as 2015. Some of the earliest uses of the term come from 4chan's /pol/ (politics) board. In this context, the term is used to express a feeling of exhaustion among some over having to live alongside what they see as stereotypically "uncivilized" Black people and being encouraged to care about problems relating to the Black community by the media.

In 2020, "Black fatigue" took on an alternate meaning following the publication of the book Black Fatigue by Mary-Frances Winters. In her book, she uses the term to express exhaustion felt by Black people due to the daily need to deal with microaggressions and racism.

Despite the alternate definition, it's the original definition that is now going viral online, which is causing a little controversy on social media.

@king_millennial_ent Black Fatigue is a real thing🤦🏾‍♂️ even in the Black community! #fyp #blackfatigue #black #fatigue #blackpeople #ratchet #crabsinabucket #badbehavior #noaccountability #lackofaccountability #trending #rodneyhinton #karmeloanthony #blackonblack #crime #america #usa #maga #fypシ #foryoupage #imjustbeinghonest #king_millennial_ent ♬ original sound – King Millennial Entertainment

How Is 'Black Fatigue' Discussed Online?

As a slang term, "Black fatigue" has been growing increasingly prevalent throughout 2025, experiencing a peak in virality in May. TikTokers and Twitter users are going viral by sharing their opinions on the term.

Some seem to think the term is just an excuse for racism that allows white people to be the victim, while others see the idea of Black fatigue as a message for Black people to change themselves for the positive.

Some of the most viral videos about Black fatigue come from Black people defending it, including users like TikToker @king_millennial_ent, who claims that he himself has Black fatigue.

The reasons for either denouncing or defending the term vary greatly from video to video, but you don't have to look far to find a lot of conflicting viewpoints.

Overall, the opinions are mixed, with some defending it, some using it as an excuse to be racist and others failing to understand how it's anything but racism with extra steps.

Racist or not, you probably shouldn't go around using the term "Black fatigue" without putting a lot of thought into what it means to you.

@andrefromdetroit Black Fatigue isn't a racist outburst but more of a long coming demand for Black people to better themselves. The primary aim of my content is to underscore the importance of Black issues and to explore the rich cultural heritage and intricate social dynamics of the Black community within the United States. At this moment, many Black individuals are navigating a profound crisis of identity, shaped by a legacy of historical injustices that continue to resonate today. There exists a concerning lack of accountability within communities, coupled with a pressing need for a more nuanced comprehension of the reparative measures essential for addressing these deep-seated issues. Currently, many feel there is an absence of strong, forward-thinking leadership--much like the historical figures who facilitated progress--resulting in a focus that often leans more toward lamenting past grievances instead of actively working to resolve contemporary challenges. This mindset can lead to a cyclical pattern of blame, where individuals may find refuge in justifying their circumstances instead of taking proactive steps toward personal and collective empowerment. To truly advance and create a better future, it is crucial to shift our focus from an inward-looking perspective that dwells on historical injustices, towards fostering a proactive approach that prioritizes solutions. This requires a collective awakening--a realization that we have the capacity and agency to dictate our path forward. Embracing this responsibility is vital for our own betterment and for advancing the community as a whole. By dedicating energy towards actionable change, we can pave the way for a brighter future, grounded in resilience and progress. #black #blacktiktok #blackpeople #blackculture #blacklivesmatter #blackfatigue #fatigue ♬ Still D.R.E. – Instrumental – Dr. Dre

What Are Some More 'Black Fatigue' Discourse Examples?

@reiivalentinaa You’re the problem when the world is tired of your antics. #blackconservative #blackrepublican #republican #trump2024🇺🇸 #conservative #blackcommunity #blackpeople #blacktiktok #fypシ ♬ original sound – Rei 🤍

@advicefromlouisreloaded Black Fatigue #Fyp #satire #education #meme #blacktiktok ♬ original sound – AdviceFromLouisReloaded

@yourgoodjudy5 #blackfatigue #fyp ♬ original sound – YOURGOODJUDY5

@cypher.j video topic inspired by @phelixplease but I will add this. A WOUND in our community is what you're looking at. All of the thugs, a wound, all of the blight, a wound, all of the crime, a wound. When we say we want to be better that's what we're addressing. If you don't want to be apart of addressing it. You're a functional liability #Black #actuallyblack ♬ original sound – Justin Scott

---

For the full history of Black Fatigue, be sure to check out Know Your Meme's encyclopedia entry for more information. for more information.