Definition & Meaning of "fear of missing out"

What is "FOMO"?

FOMO, short for "fear of missing out," is the feeling of anxiety or insecurity that arises when one sees others enjoying experiences, especially on social media. It occurs when a person feels left out or worries about missing opportunities, events, or activities that others seem to be enjoying. FOMO can lead people to frequently check their devices, compare their lives to others, or feel pressured to join trends or events to avoid feeling left behind.