doomscrolling

American  

[doom-skroh-ling] / ˈdumˌskroʊ lɪŋ /

Or doom-scrolling

noun

Digital Technology.

1. the practice of obsessively checking online news for updates, especially on social media feeds, with the expectation that the news will be bad, such that the feeling of dread from this negative expectation fuels a compulsion to continue looking for updates in a self-perpetuating cycle.

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Etymology

Origin of doomscrolling

First recorded in 2016; doomscroll ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. )

Explanation

Doomscrolling is the act of endlessly scrolling through bad news, seemingly unable to stop yourself even when you know it’s dragging you down. Doomscrolling often leaves people overwhelmed or anxious. This behavior became more common with the rise of smartphones and social media, where bad news is always just a swipe away. Instead of looking away, doomscrolling keeps you glued to the screen, drawn into a cycle of worry. Understanding doomscrolling can help you break free from the habit and take control of your screen time.

Example Sentences

It was during a moment of pre-bedtime doomscrolling when I came across a trend so ludicrous that I had to set my phone down and laugh.

From Salon • May 17, 2026

You’ve heard of doomscrolling on your phone to pass the time — but what about “doomjobbing” while looking for work?

From MarketWatch • May 15, 2026

The government had already said it would launch the public consultation in March, seeking opinions about restricting children's access to AI chatbots and limiting infinite scrolling features for children – also known as doomscrolling.

From BBC • Feb. 15, 2026

Drop the doomscrolling for a day, make the time to read them all and become a better Southern Californian in the process.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 30, 2025

We’re addicted to the small screens, they say, and everything that comes with them—like social-media updating and doomscrolling.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 7, 2025