Are you wondering why people are using “cracking 4s” on TikTok, Facebook, or Instagram and what it even means? It is slang popular in gangs for performing hand gestures excluding the thumb. It is an expression of unity and pride for gangs. This article will explain in detail what cracking 4s means along with real-life use case scenarios.
What Does Cracking 4s Mean
Cracking 4s is a term from a street culture that is often linked to the Crips gang. It involves a hand sign or slang that shows loyalty or connection to a group. The number “4” is important to the Crips as it represents their gang. Over time, this term spread through rap music and became popular in both street and pop culture.
Examples
Example 1
Mila: I saw you do the 4 sign when you walked in. What was that for?
Carlos: Just cracking 4s, man. It’s a way of representing where I’m from and showing respect for the crew.
Example 2
Juno: That guy was wearing all blue and doing the hand sign. What does it mean?
Diego: Yeah, looks like that guy is cracking 4s and showing he is down with the Crips.
Example 3
Eden: Is there any new gang cracking 3s along with 4s?
Valeria: Nope, I don’t think so. It is Chicago and making a new gng is not that easy.
Example 4
Roman: I saw you throwing up the 4 sign earlier. What’s that about?
Luciana: Oh, it’s just a way to rep my people, you know? Cracking 4s shows loyalty to the crew.
Where Did Cracking 4s Come From
The term likely began with the Crips in Los Angeles. In gang culture, the Crips use “4” as their symbol, while their rivals “the Bloods” use “5.” This number difference helps people identify which gang someone is part of.
Rap music and street influencers helped make “cracking 4s” more popular. Artists like TK mentioned it in their songs in the early 2000s and it spread to a larger audience. Over time, it turned into street slang with meanings beyond its original gang roots.
