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.
Trailborn Hotels These are the types of places that can put a relationship and friendship in full view without the stressors of real life. Ramsey Qubein, Forbes.com, 30 Jan. 2026 Household needs Choose a flooring that will stand up to the stressors in your home. Dan Simms, USA Today, 29 Jan. 2026 Luckily, removable wallpaper makes this less of a stressor. Melissa Epifano, The Spruce, 29 Jan. 2026 Oquendo says things like living in poverty, or near environmental toxins, or being part of a religious or cultural minority who faces additional daily stressors can all affect mental health negatively. Rhitu Chatterjee, NPR, 28 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stressor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stressor. Accessed 2 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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