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

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.

From BBC • Jun. 27, 2025

“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.”

From Salon • Feb. 5, 2025

Each hand had three smooth, gold half-orbs on the ring finger made of plastic and encased in gel — omitting a xylophone-like sound when touched in a quick up-down motion — to soothe her stimming.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 14, 2022

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