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.
These unstable atoms form as a result of exposure to environmental stressors like UV rays and pollution. Kristin Canning, SELF, 19 June 2025 An underlying problem like sleep apnea may surface with the summer’s stressors. Jesse Pines, Forbes.com, 12 June 2025 Dermatologists recommend treating it with a moisturizer because this area can be more prone to the effects of aging and environmental stressors. Deanna Pai, Glamour, 12 June 2025 As the name would suggest, the fortifying Full Rescue collection — which consists of a scalp serum, shampoo, conditioner, mask and a leave-in spray — protects both the scalp and strands from various stressors that compromise hair from root to tip. Jackie Fields, People.com, 4 June 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 27 Jun. 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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