Kooslust

Kooslust is a term that has appeared in online communities as a coined noun describing a social tendency toward shared enthusiasm and mutual encouragement within a group. It is not an established term in psychology, linguistics, or formal social theory, and there is no consensus definition.

The word's origin is uncertain. It appears to be a portmanteau or playful coinage, with suggested links to Dutch or Germanic roots such as koos (to cuddle) or to a sense of togetherness, combined with lust (desire). Other sources treat kooslust as a wholly modern neologism with no fixed etymology.

In broad terms, kooslust refers to a collective mindset or behavior in which members engage in supportive, positive interaction, celebrate each other's contributions, and coordinate activities that reinforce group cohesion. It emphasizes warmth, reciprocity, and shared emotional investment rather than competition.

It is most often discussed in online forums, streaming communities, fan groups, and creative collectives where members openly acknowledge and amplify each other's achievements. Descriptions of kooslust sometimes resemble concepts such as collective effervescence or social grooming applied to digital culture.

Because kooslust is not a formal theory, references are informal and vary by community. Related ideas include social cohesion, collective effervescence, and online group dynamics.