Definition

Short for 'alternate universe,' a fictional setting where the established canon of a story is changed or reimagined with different rules, events, or outcomes. AUs allow fans to explore 'what if' scenarios.

Example Usage

In this coffeeshop AU, the main characters meet as baristas instead of enemies.

Origin

Internet fandom abbreviation popularized in fan fiction communities from the 2000s onward.

Fun Fact

AUs are one of the most common types of fan fiction, with popular subcategories like 'college AU,' 'soulmate AU,' and 'zombie AU.'

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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