stimming

American  

[stim-ing] / ˈstɪm ɪŋ /

noun

1. the repetition of physical movements or articulated noises exhibited by people, especially young children and those with developmental disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder, often in reaction to a mental or emotional state.

   Stimming, like covering my ears while repeating a sound, can soothe intense feelings and bring back my sense of control.

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Etymology

Origin of stimming

First recorded in 1980–85; shortening of earlier self-stimming, from self ( def. ) + stim(ulation) ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

stimming

The toy features elbow and wrist articulation, which allows for stimming and other gestures.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 12, 2026

Riches began to feel comfortable enough to let his housemates see him stimming, which is self-stimulatory behaviour like making noises or repetitive body movements, for example with a hand or a finger.

From BBC ● Mar. 28, 2024

He’ll eat while stimming, except for when he takes a dance break.

From The Verge ● Jul. 12, 2022

Some expressed relief that they did not have to edit their geeky conversations, make eye contact or hold back on stimming.

From Washington Post ● Jul. 20, 2015

Soloniuk notes: ”The school hides a 7-year-old with autism alone in a classroom all day, and when they bring him out once a day, he starts flapping and stimming, because he sees all these kids around.

From Salon ● May 24, 2012