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.
Although the brain itself has no pain receptors, Bacon was given local anesthetic to numb her scalp and skull, as doctors made holes half the size of a small coin in her skull and implanted the stimulating electrodes inside. Elmira Aliieva, NBC news, 23 Oct. 2025 However, matcha’s high levels of L-theanine, a calming amino acid, help balance caffeine’s stimulating effects. Jillian Kubala, Health, 19 Oct. 2025 Experts recommend short initial departures, avoiding dramatic exits or returns, and providing mentally stimulating toys or food puzzles to keep canines occupied. Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Oct. 2025 Megan wants a partner who will offer more stimulating conversation. Jennifer Zhan, Vulture, 15 Oct. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stimulating.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stimulating. Accessed 30 Oct. 2025.

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