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

Others can act as stimulants that increase energy levels in the body, reducing sleep and relaxation, such as the B-complex vitamins and caffeine. —Ayesha Gulzar, Verywell Health, 6 Jan. 2026

Mendelson said truck drivers during the 1950s were taking stimulants to stay awake, and the military uses them to this day. —Kevin Krause, Dallas Morning News, 6 Jan. 2026

Basically, stimulants were linked with improved cognitive performance – but only for those with ADHD who had insufficient sleep. —New Atlas, 3 Jan. 2026

Avoid stimulants and instead include foods rich in tryptophan, such as banana, a glass of warm milk with a little honey, or a handful of almonds. —Mónica Heras, Vogue, 30 Dec. 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