stressor

noun

stress·​or ˈstre-sər How to pronounce stressor (audio) -ˌsȯr How to pronounce stressor (audio)
: a stimulus that causes stress

Examples of stressor in a Sentence

Credit card debt is a major stressor in her life.
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.
Applied after your regular body moisturizer, a body oil helps lock in hydration, reduce moisture loss, and protect skin from environmental stressors like dry air, leaving skin more comfortable and resilient. Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 5 Feb. 2026 Pregnancy, once viewed as a temporary stressor, is now understood very differently. Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 5 Feb. 2026 Staying true to this purpose can be a supremely motivating force in the face of stressors that might otherwise knock you down or leave you reeling. Erica Sloan, SELF, 5 Feb. 2026 Weigh your stressors and what cozymaxxing can help regulate within your environment. Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for stressor

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of stressor was in 1950

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Cite this Entry

“Stressor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stressor. Accessed 8 Feb. 2026.

Medical Definition

stressor

noun
stress·​or ˈstres-ər How to pronounce stressor (audio) -ˌȯ(ə)r How to pronounce stressor (audio)
: a stimulus that causes stress
psychological stressors
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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