stressor

noun

stress·​or ˈstre-sər How to pronounce stressor (audio) -ˌsȯr How to pronounce stressor (audio)
: a stimulus that causes stress

Examples of stressor in a Sentence

Credit card debt is a major stressor in her life.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Compared to effects on memory and age-related brain health, more research shows creatine supplements can protect against specific cognitive stressors. Matt Fuchs, Time, 2 Sep. 2025 Rich people think of budgets as opportunities, not stressors. Stav Ziv, CNBC, 2 Sep. 2025 Being averse to change, or using change to cope with normative stressors, can have a significant impact on wellbeing. Eric Wood, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2025 Financial troubles on the ranch A major stressor for Katherine and George in the latter half of the series is their financial troubles, as a disease spreads through the trees on their expansive Colorado ranch. Julia Moore, People.com, 31 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for stressor

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of stressor was in 1950

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stressor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stressor. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

stressor

noun
stress·​or ˈstres-ər How to pronounce stressor (audio) -ˌȯ(ə)r How to pronounce stressor (audio)
: a stimulus that causes stress
psychological stressors
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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