reinforcer

noun

re·​in·​forc·​er ˌrē-ən-ˈfȯr-sər How to pronounce reinforcer (audio)
: a stimulus (such as a reward or the removal of an electric shock) that increases the probability of a desired response in operant conditioning by being applied or effected following the desired response

Examples of reinforcer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Because people compulsively eat huge quantities of food, but the food is a natural reinforcer. Adam Piore, Discover Magazine, 30 Oct. 2014 The present experiment was designed to assess whether paramecium could learn a discrete action as opposed to remaining in a specific area, using cathode shock as a reinforcer. Ncbi Rofl, Discover Magazine, 29 Mar. 2011 It was used as a reinforcer to help him do classwork. Rafael Olmeda, Sun Sentinel, 22 Aug. 2022 Together, this suggests that relief from distressing emotion acts as a powerful reinforcer, likely increasing the probability that people continue to experience self-injurious thoughts and behaviors. Kevin King, The Conversation, 28 Apr. 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'reinforcer.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of reinforcer was in 1890

Dictionary Entries Near reinforcer

Cite this Entry

“Reinforcer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reinforcer. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

reinforcer

noun
re·​in·​forc·​er ˌrē-ən-ˈfōr-sər How to pronounce reinforcer (audio)
-ˈfȯr-
1
: one that reinforces
2
: a stimulus (as a reward or the removal of something unpleasant) given after a desired action or reply that helps to make the individual act or reply in the same way when the conditions are repeated

Medical Definition

reinforcer

noun
re·​in·​forc·​er -ˈfōr-sər, -ˈfȯr- How to pronounce reinforcer (audio)
: a stimulus (as a reward or removal of an electric shock) that increases the probability of a desired response in operant conditioning by being applied or removed following the desired response
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