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

Twine said the range is formulated to improve hair that has been adversely impacted by environmental stressors like UV exposure, pollution and heat styling, and biological and hormonal shifts. — Jenny B. Fine, Footwear News, 25 Aug. 2026

While drought and heat often go hand in hand, the two stressors can also act independently. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 21 Aug. 2026

Aloe and Centella asiatica lend soothing benefits, antioxidant-rich green tea defends against environmental stressors, and ceramides support the skin barrier. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 20 Aug. 2026

Threat assessment examines the person of concern, the context and trajectory of their behaviour, the stressors and stabilisers around them, their access and capability, and the opportunities for intervention. — Control Risks, Forbes.com, 20 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