stressor

noun

stress·​or ˈstre-sər  -ˌsȯr 

: 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

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

These particular stressors that come with the job are what researchers call parenting stress. — Daniel M. Bagner, The Conversation, 7 Aug. 2026

These issues can also occur due to drought, winter damage, and other stressors. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Aug. 2026

Rapid weight loss is a physiological stressor that can push hair follicles prematurely out of their growth phase and into a resting phase. — Jesse Pines, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for stressor

• dresser
• lesser
• lessor
• presser
• pressor
• aggressor
• assessor
• compressor
• confessor
• depressor
• hairdresser
• necessar

Medical Definition

stressor

noun

stress·​or ˈstres-ər  -ˌȯ(ə)r 

: a stimulus that causes stress

psychological stressors