doomscrolling

or doom-scroll·ing

[ doom-skroh-ling ]

noun

, Digital Technology.

1. the practice of obsessively checking 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 doomscrolling¹

First recorded in 2016; doomscroll ( def ) + -ing ¹( def )

Example Sentences

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

The fading of memories and the relentless passage of time are familiar feelings for the generation accustomed to doomscrolling through endless feeds.

From Salon