stimming

[stim-ing]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of stimming¹

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

Example Sentences

Apparently, it’s short for “stimming,” which refers to repetitive movements or sounds a person makes to regulate emotions.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

When Manchester United put out clackers for fans at an FA Cup game, she found the noise the crowd made unbearable, leading to her stimming, external - finger drumming is a big one for her - to try to prevent herself becoming overwhelmed.

Read more on BBC

And while she firmly believes people should not be ashamed of openly stimming, it can still make her feel self-conscious when people notice, only increasing her discomfort.

Read more on BBC

“For example, getting into trouble for stimming only added to my anxiety and self-doubt. Conforming to the acceptable norms kept me isolated and misunderstood.”

Read more on Salon

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.

Read more on BBC