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.
The women must navigate the squad’s strict protocols while grappling with injuries and mental health challenges, among other stressors. Angelique Jackson, Variety, 2 June 2026 Simple stress relievers like stress balls and essential oil diffusers will help dad alleviate some of the day’s stressors. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 1 June 2026 When clinicians understand patients over time—their goals, their stressors, their health history—data becomes far more actionable. Felicity Yost, Forbes.com, 1 June 2026 Environmental stressors can include insufficient water, high temperatures, excessive moisture and/or nitrogen, severe pruning, or root damage. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 29 May 2026 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 4 Jun. 2026.

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
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