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

Avoid caffeine or stimulants at least eight hours before bedtime. —Rosanna Sutherby, Verywell Health, 9 Sep. 2025

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, kratom can be a stimulant when used in low doses, increasing alertness and physical energy. —Miami Herald, 8 Sep. 2025

Both have been charged with first-degree murder, three counts of possession of opiate, opium, narcotic, or certain stimulant, and possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia. —Laura Bauer, Kansas City Star, 7 Sep. 2025

Ritalin is a stimulant that is prescribed to treat attention-defecit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). —Marina Watts, PEOPLE, 4 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