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

Researchers suggested that future studies should include people who actually experience tingles to better understand how ASMR might help with mental health and relaxation. —Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Nov. 2025

Slime arguably gained traction thanks to ASMR videos posted on Instagram, but has since migrated into the world, where kids play with it (or make their own) at home. —Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 6 Nov. 2025

The duo’s Halloween ASMR clip arrives the month after the conclusion of Wednesday season 2. —Kyle Denis, Billboard, 31 Oct. 2025

Raina is a teenager who creates YouTube ASMR videos—her face hidden—and has a sizable following. —Lauren Morrow september 9, Literary Hub, 9 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

2011, in the meaning defined at sense 1