stimulating

adjective

stim·​u·​lat·​ing ˈstim-yə-ˌlā-tiŋ How to pronounce stimulating (audio)
Synonyms of stimulatingnext
: producing stimulation: such as
a
: enjoyably exciting or interesting
a very stimulating experience/environment
a stimulating discussion
"There is nothing more stimulating than a case where everything goes against you."Arthur Conan Doyle
b
: acting as a stimulant : producing increased energy or alertness
When nicotine reaches the brain it mimics the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which has a stimulating effect.Laura Mansnerus
They gave strong narcotic or stimulating drugs indiscriminately …John Laffin

Examples of stimulating in a Sentence

enjoys the good food and stimulating conversation at his best friend's house a brisk, stimulating walk on a bright, clear wintry day an article containing a stimulating argument for raising, not lowering, the tax on gasoline
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.
However, once the moon slips into Aquarius, the atmosphere takes on a more cerebral, independent and mentally stimulating vibe. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 1 July 2026 Instead, the stimulating ingredient added to the product is causing the symptoms. Sara Hoffman, Verywell Health, 29 June 2026 Morning or daytime sessions support your circadian rhythm because red light is mitochondrially stimulating and late-night use can disrupt sleep. Allison Palmer updated June 24, Miami Herald, 24 June 2026 The new guidance specifically warned that low-quality digital use -- mindless scrolling, autoplay videos, frequent notifications and algorithms that push extreme or harmful material -- can be highly stimulating but may lead to issues with sleep, learning, engagement and emotional regulation. Mason Leib, ABC News, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for stimulating

Word History

First Known Use

1645, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of stimulating was in 1645

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stimulating.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stimulating. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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