doomscroll

or doom-scroll

[ doom-skrohl ]

verb (used with or without object)

, Digital Technology.

1. to obsessively check 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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of doomscroll¹

First recorded in 2015–20; doom ( def ) + scroll ( def ) (in the sense “to move text up, down, or across a display screen”); influenced by doomsday ( def )

Example Sentences

“I did go on social media, but I’ve averted a doomscroll.”

From Los Angeles Times

They are sure to ease your mail-ballot panic or at least give you a break from doomscrolling, page refreshes and channel flipping.

From Los Angeles Times

Instead of doomscrolling or studying the latest polls, people should consider exercising, enjoying nature and hobbies, or socializing with friends.

From Los Angeles Times

Limit your news consumption, checking it only at specific times instead of constantly doomscrolling.

From Los Angeles Times

Children “doomscrolling for hours a day” is causing widespread harm, according to Josh MacAlister, the Labour MP and former teacher behind the private member's bill being introduced in the House of Commons on Wednesday.

From BBC