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

The conflicting effects of stimulants and opioids can also exacerbate mental health issues. —Andrew Yockey, The Conversation, 3 July 2025

People with heart or blood pressure issues: Be cautious with pre-workout supplements, especially those that contain high levels of caffeine or other stimulants. —Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 2 July 2025

Kratom is a traditional herbal remedy from Southeast Asia that proponents say has potential for a variety of uses, including as a stimulant or pain reliever, or as treatment for depression, anxiety and opioid withdrawal. —Nick Coltrain, Denver Post, 31 May 2025

These counterfeit pills are made to look like prescription opioids or stimulants but contain fentanyl or even methamphetamine. —Robert Glatter, Forbes.com, 15 May 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