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

• 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

Beyond the mental clarity and razor sharp focus, taking mushrooms like lion’s mane also comes without many of the potential side effects that are typically associated with stimulants like jitters, energy spikes, and mid-day crashes. —Brianna Peters, Vogue, 1 Oct. 2025

Every person metabolizes caffeine differently but those who are sensitive to the stimulant may need more than 10 hours to fully eliminate it from their system. —Anthea Levi, Health, 26 Sep. 2025

Limit consuming big meals, alcohol, and caffeine in the evening, as the body requires energy to digest food and process beverages or stimulants. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 20 Sep. 2025

Reject The Quick-Fix Trap The temptation is to reach for stimulants, sedatives, or trendy supplements. —Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025

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