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

Snoring has quietly become one of the most measurable stressors in modern relationships, and the market for fixes, from $10 nose clips to $400 smart pillows, is racing to catch up. — Lauren Schuster, Charlotte Observer, 24 Sep. 2026

It’s packed with antioxidants to fend off environmental stressors such as pollutants that otherwise cause signs of aging, reduce puffiness (thank you, natural caffeine), and curb excess sebum. — Sarah Han, Allure, 24 Sep. 2026

Exercise is technically a stressor, so a demanding workout briefly spikes cortisol, but the spike is temporary and beneficial. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 22 Sep. 2026

Noise acts as a stressor, activating the autonomic nervous and endocrine systems and affecting heart rate, blood pressure and other physiological processes. — Laura Coco, The Conversation, 21 Sep. 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