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

Adding to the growing crisis, experts said, are events like the wars in Ukraine and Iran, which have only increased the financial stressors on getting what food is available to food distribution centers. — Ross Guidotti, CBS News, 31 July 2026

These stressors may activate physiological responses that play a role in the progression of the condition. — Carina Heckert, The Conversation, 30 July 2026

While not a sunscreen, this advanced treatment serum complements any SPF routine by helping strengthen the skin barrier and support recovery from environmental stressors, including daily UV exposure. — Corein Carter, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

Floyd is no longer attracted to his wife, has trouble connecting with his teen-age stepson, and owes tens of thousands in taxes—a set of stressors that are ruining his health. — Inkoo Kang, New Yorker, 22 July 2026

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