stimulating

adjective

stim·​u·​lat·​ing ˈstim-yə-ˌlā-tiŋ How to pronounce stimulating (audio)
: producing stimulation: such as
a
: enjoyably exciting or interesting
a very stimulating experience/environment
a stimulating discussion
"There is nothing more stimulating than a case where everything goes against you."Arthur Conan Doyle
b
: acting as a stimulant : producing increased energy or alertness
When nicotine reaches the brain it mimics the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which has a stimulating effect.Laura Mansnerus
They gave strong narcotic or stimulating drugs indiscriminately …John Laffin

Examples of stimulating in a Sentence

enjoys the good food and stimulating conversation at his best friend's house a brisk, stimulating walk on a bright, clear wintry day an article containing a stimulating argument for raising, not lowering, the tax on gasoline
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Your letter completes our stimulating and fruitful relationship these several (many?) years. John Updike, New Yorker, 11 July 2025 Other stimulating features to look for include different textures for their senses, mirrors, rattles and brightly colored toys. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 2 July 2025 Best of all, admission is free for everyone on Tuesdays, providing a budget-friendly and intellectually stimulating way to spend an afternoon indoors. Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 Additionally, these couples are better at planning thrilling and stimulating dates — which are vital for keeping the romantic spark alive. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 7 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for stimulating

Word History

First Known Use

1645, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of stimulating was in 1645

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Cite this Entry

“Stimulating.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stimulating. Accessed 15 Jul. 2025.

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