zoomies

plural noun

zoom·​ies ˈzü-mēz 

: a sudden and brief burst of energetic activity (such as running, jumping, or spinning) in usually domestic animals and especially dogs and cats

Zoomies are often a reflection of pure joy or relief. Whether it's the excitement of seeing their favorite person come home or the relief of finishing bath time, dogs express their emotions in bursts of energy.

—Mohave Valley Daily News (Bullhead City, Arizona)

As soon as they open the door, Bennett goes speeding through. He dashes around the garden, taking a moment to urinate on a bush and mark his territory. He then continues with his zoomies, happily running in circles across the grass.

—Sophie Lloyd

—often used with the

Even birds can get the zoomies when feeling energized!

—Gabrielle LaFrank

… when Meowstique has the zoomies, this [toy] will keep her well entertained and not running around the house like some sort of jungle predator.

—Anne Felicitas

Word History

Etymology

zoom entry 1 + -ies (plural of -ie), as in willies and like nouns denoting a state or condition

First Known Use

2003, in the meaning defined above