Spoonie/SPOON-ee/

Community slang for people with chronic illness or disability, tied to Spoon Theory.

Andy the squirrel, mascot for NDlexicon

Andy says:

A short way to say: “I plan my day by energy, not just time.”

IdentitySlang
Updated 2025-08-17
Sources: Community Contributors
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Detailed Explanation

“Spoonie” comes from the Spoon Theory metaphor and signals shared experience around energy limits. Many neurodivergent people identify with it.

Community Context

Used online, in support groups, and advocacy. Some prefer other terms; ask preferences.

Quick Tips

  • Use if it resonates; avoid labeling others unasked
  • Pair with practical supports (accommodations, pacing)

Do / Don't

  • Do: respect self‑identification
  • Don't: trivialize or gatekeep the term

Scientific Context

A cultural term rather than clinical; helpful for framing energy management.

Language Notes

Related: spoon theory, pacing.

Related Terms

Spoon Theory (Energy Accounting)

A metaphor for limited daily energy (“spoons”) used to plan, pace, and communicate capacity.

Energy Budgeting

Planning activities around available energy using a structured, proactive plan.

Pacing

Balancing activity and rest to avoid overwhelm, burnout, or crashes.

Sources

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