If you’ve scrolled through TikTok, watched a rap video, or caught a big sports game, you’ve probably seen people “throwing up 4s”—holding up four fingers, palm out, often with a serious face or as part of a group pose. But what does throwing up 4s actually mean? Is it just a trendy gesture, or does it have deeper roots in sports, music, and street culture? In this guide, Slanginfo.com breaks down the origins, meanings, and cultural impact of throwing up 4s so you’ll always be in the know.
The Core Meaning: Throwing Up 4s in Sports
One of the most common and widely recognized meanings of throwing up 4s comes from American football and basketball. As the third quarter ends and the fourth quarter begins, players and fans will often hold up four fingers to signal that it’s “fourth quarter time.” This is a rallying cry—a way to say, “Give it your all, the game is on the line, and now is when champions are made.” It’s about maximum effort, focus, and finishing strong when it matters most[1].
Example:
At the start of the fourth quarter, you’ll see entire teams and stadiums throwing up 4s to pump each other up and signal that the final push is here.
Hip-Hop and Street Culture: More Than Just a Number
Throwing up 4s has also been adopted by hip-hop artists and fans, sometimes taking on new, localized meanings. In rap videos and photos, you’ll see artists like DaBaby telling people to “put the fours up.” In this context, it can be a symbol of “keeping it real,” showing pride for your crew, or simply striking a pose that signals confidence and authenticity[1].
Regional and Gang-Related Meanings
In some cities, especially in the South and Midwest, throwing up 4s can have specific regional or gang-related meanings. For example:
- Charlotte, North Carolina: The “4” can reference the city itself, a nod to the 704 area code, or even local neighborhoods like Nations Ford[1][4].
- Chicago and Baton Rouge: In some neighborhoods, throwing up 4s is a known gang sign, and the gesture can carry serious connotations. It’s important to be aware of local context, as using the sign in the wrong place can be risky[1][4].
Note:
If you’re unsure about the meaning in your area, it’s best to avoid using the gesture in public, especially in cities where it might be associated with gangs.
Pop Culture and Viral Trends
The gesture’s popularity has exploded thanks to social media, sports broadcasts, and viral marketing. You’ll see fans, athletes, and even brands (like Wendy’s with their “4 for 4” deal) using the sign for everything from hype to humor[4]. It’s also become a go-to pose for group photos, signaling unity or just adding a bit of edge.
Other Meanings and Interpretations
- Numerical Representation: At its simplest, throwing up 4s just means “the number four.” It can be used to represent a fourth member, a fourth win, or any other context where the number is significant[1].
- School Spirit: At UCLA, holding up four fingers can signify the four letters in “UCLA,” or be used in school chants and cheers[2].
- Internet and Meme Culture: Like many hand signs, throwing up 4s has been memed and remixed across platforms, sometimes just for the aesthetic or as an inside joke.
Usage Examples
- Sports:
“As the third quarter ended, the whole team started throwing up 4s to show they were ready for the final push.” - Rap Photos:
“DaBaby told everyone to throw up 4s for the picture—now it’s his signature pose.” - Social Media:
“Throwing up 4s with my crew after we finished our fourth project this month!”
Is Throwing Up 4s Always Safe or Appropriate?
While throwing up 4s is harmless in most sports and pop culture settings, it’s important to be aware of your environment. In some cities, the gesture is tied to gang culture, and using it without understanding the local meaning could be misinterpreted[1][4]. When in doubt, stick to using it in sports, school, or casual social situations.
FAQs About Throwing Up 4s
Is throwing up 4s a gang sign?
In some regions, yes—it can be associated with certain gangs or neighborhoods. Always be mindful of context.
Why do athletes throw up 4s?
It’s a tradition to mark the start of the fourth quarter, signaling the final and most important part of the game.
Who started the trend in hip-hop?
While no single artist can claim credit, rappers like DaBaby and others from Charlotte have helped popularize the gesture in recent years.
Can I use the gesture in photos?
If you’re using it for sports, school, or casual fun, it’s generally safe. Avoid using it in unfamiliar neighborhoods or where it might be misunderstood.
Conclusion
Throwing up 4s is a powerful, flexible hand sign that can mean everything from “let’s finish strong” in sports to “representing my crew” in hip-hop and street culture. Like many viral gestures, its meaning can shift depending on where you are and who you’re with. When used thoughtfully, it’s a unifying symbol of effort, pride, and belonging.
Have you seen throwing up 4s in your city or online? Share your stories, questions, or photos in the comments below! For more on trending slang, hand signs, and internet culture, keep exploring Slanginfo.com.
