stressor

noun

stress·​or ˈstre-sər  -ˌsȯr 

: 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

And though stress is ever-present, an acute stressor that activates the fight-or-flight response, brought on by an argument or difficult situation, could exacerbate the situation, creating a perfect storm. —Allison Aubrey, NPR, 17 Dec. 2025

Navigating Sibling Relationships As adult children start to care for aging parents, sibling tension can become an additional stressor, research has found. —Jenna Anderson, Health, 15 Dec. 2025

Each stressor responds to a different intervention. —Sara Braun, Miami Herald, 15 Dec. 2025

For those seeking deeper moisturization and cellular renewal, the Repair Hemp & Retinol Face Cream ($75) blends retinol with plant extracts like avocado and rice oil to improve texture, brighten tone, and support firmness, while antioxidants help defend against environmental stressors. —Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 13 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for stressor

• dresser
• lesser
• lessor
• presser
• pressor
• aggressor
• assessor
• compressor
• confessor
• depressor
• hairdresser
• necessar

Medical Definition

stressor

noun

stress·​or ˈstres-ər  -ˌȯ(ə)r 

: a stimulus that causes stress

psychological stressors