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.
On top of that, the lawn will eventually suffer from stressors such as heat, cold, or traffic wear that can cause it to thin out. — Lee Wallender, The Spruce, 15 Aug. 2026 Gas remains the second-highest financial stressor for consumers, trailing only grocery prices. — Catherine Brock, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026 Mature skin benefits because the barrier becomes drier and more vulnerable to environmental stressors over time, and normal skin can use probiotics as a preventative, barrier-supportive step. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Kansas City Star, 11 Aug. 2026 This potent elixir is powered by L-ascorbic acid, vitamin E, and ferulic acid to protect against environmental stressors and combat fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration. — Deanna Pai, Vogue, 7 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for stressor

See All Rhymes for stressor

Browse Nearby Words

stress-meter
stressor
stress-rhythm
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stressor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stressor. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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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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