stimulant

noun

stim·​u·​lant ˈstim-yə-lənt 

1

: an agent (such as a drug) that produces a temporary increase of the functional activity or efficiency of an organism or any of its parts

2

: stimulus

3

: an alcoholic beverage

—not used technically

stimulant adjective

Synonyms of stimulant

• incentive
• stimulus
• impetus
• encouragement
• motivation

Examples of stimulant in a Sentence

The movie was a stimulant to discussion.

the relaxed zoning regulations should serve as a stimulant for development in the area

Recent Examples on the Web

Exercise is also a natural stimulant. —Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 20 Mar. 2026

The study, which analyzed data from January 2016 to June 2024, found that the demographics of those receiving stimulants have shifted significantly. —Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 17 Mar. 2026

Despite the divine assistance of stimulants and hallucinogens, looking for paradise in the middle of a desert party is a hopeless path. —Álex Maroño Porto, The Atlantic, 14 Mar. 2026

Energy drinks are designed to boost energy levels via caffeine and other stimulants, such as glucose. —Laura Dorwart, Verywell Health, 11 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1728, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

stimulant

noun

stim·​u·​lant ˈstim-yə-lənt 

1

: something (as a drug) that temporarily increases the activity or efficiency of the body or one of its parts

a heart stimulant

2

: stimulus sense 1

stimulant adjective

Medical Definition

stimulant

noun

stim·​u·​lant ˈstim-yə-lənt 

1

: an agent (as a drug) that produces a temporary increase of the functional activity or efficiency of an organism or any of its parts

2

: stimulus sense 2