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

Chasing dopamine while cutting spending That squeezable quality is where ASMR comes in. — Steven John, Fortune, 10 Oct. 2026

Those who subscribe to the complex routines say their skin benefits from the layers of hydration, and viewers are hooked on the ASMR-like videos as influencers tap their glass-like faces with their fingers and beauty tools. — Taylor Nicioli, CNN Money, 8 Oct. 2026

Then there is one ASMR artist who does vintage Seventeen magazine flip-throughs from, like, 1958 or whatever. — Irene Richardson, InStyle, 25 Sep. 2026

Specifically in New York, a Swedish candy store called Bon Bon blew up and had influencers creating ASMR taste test videos. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

2011, in the meaning defined at sense 1