ASMR

noun

ˌā-ˌes-ˌem-ˈär 

1

: a pleasant tingling sensation that originates on the back of the scalp and often spreads to the neck and upper spine, that occurs in some people in response to a stimulus (such as a particular kind of sound or movement), and that tends to have a calming effect

It might sound like a bafflingly bizarre way to spend time on the internet. But for Maria's viewers, her voice and movements hold a certain magic: they can instill tranquillity, overcome insomnia—and induce a mysterious physical sensation known as … ASMR, wherein the body is flooded with waves of euphoric tingles.

—Caitlin Gibson

A survey found that the most common triggers for ASMR are whispering, personal attention, crisp sounds, slow movements, repetitive movements, and smiling.

—Cory Stieg

Although ASMR is not scientifically proven as yet and is largely an internet-driven phenomenon, it's garnered quite a following …

—Samantha Shanley

called also autonomous sensory meridian response

2

: something (such as someone whispering or brushing their hair) that triggers such a sensation

And since quarantine started, I've watched ASMR before bed almost every single night to fall asleep.

—Elana Morris

—often used before another noun

ASMR videos

Examples of ASMR in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

When the worlds of slime and ASMR collided, the popularity of both got a boost. —Nicole Gull McElroy, WIRED, 13 July 2024

Sure, Russian manicures are satisfying to watch on TikTok (macro-shots of cuticles being precisely snipped and sanded are peak-beauty ASMR), but is this intense grooming safe for your nails? —Kara Nesvig, Allure, 3 July 2024

The plethora of cleaning videos on TikTok can be mesmerizing and inspiring, from scrubbing ASMR to novel hacks for #SundayReset. —Kinsey Crowley, USA TODAY, 25 May 2024

Hu employed long tracking shots and dynamic jump cuts to create a dramatic, almost spiritual sense of rhythm, while the pitter-patter of racing feet, the bright clang of weapons, and the swish of bodies rushing through the foliage imparts a musical effect not unlike the pleasures of ASMR. —Vikram Murthi, Vulture, 4 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

2011, in the meaning defined at sense 1