A tactic used to deliberately provoke fear in a specific person or group, just to get a reaction. Similar to rage baiting, which seeks to spark anger, fear baiting is about triggering anxiety, panic, or unease on purpose. It's typically personal or situational, rather than widespread like fear mongering. The term is most often used among friends in a joking way, though it can also describe moments where fear is pushed a little too far.
The term was coined by Twi Shorts to describe AyoDen's playful attempts to spook or freak others out.
The term was coined by Twi Shorts to describe AyoDen's playful attempts to spook or freak others out.
1. He was fear baiting his little brother with fake ghost stories just to watch him freak out.
2. Telling her the teacher’s mad when they’re not is just fear baiting at this point.
2. Telling her the teacher’s mad when they’re not is just fear baiting at this point.
by Twi Shorts July 13, 2025