Rumination

/ˌɹuː.mɪˈneɪ.ʃən/ noun

Definition

The tendency to repetitively and passively dwell on negative thoughts, symptoms of distress, and their causes and consequences.

Etymology

From Latin 'ruminatio' meaning 'a chewing over,' from 'ruminare' (to chew the cud). Metaphor of mentally 'chewing over' thoughts.

Kelly Says

Rumination is when your brain gets stuck replaying the same worried thoughts over and over — like a song on repeat you can't turn off.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.