stress eating

American  

[stres ee-ting] / ˈstrɛs ˌi tɪŋ /

noun

1. emotional eating, especially in response to stress, tension, or anxiety.

   Stress eating is a common response to emotional turbulence that can damage your body over the long term.

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Etymology

Origin of stress eating

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

More research is needed to clarify exactly how stress, eating habits, and gut health interact, but the results point to timing as an important factor.

From Science Daily • May 1, 2026

“Take long walks to clear your head in order to deal with the stress,” he coached Santos via text, urging him to avoid stress eating and alcohol.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 20, 2023

That in these harried times, good enough is fine . . . but putting even minimal effort into what you're stress eating may be a comfort.

From Salon • Jan. 8, 2021

The researchers who worked on this study have suggested that B. longum APC1472 could be used to minimize "stress eating" if further studies prove the bacteria is effective in supplement form.

From Fox News • Dec. 21, 2020

I did a lot of stress eating this year.

From Washington Post • Dec. 28, 2016