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.
Twine said the range is formulated to improve hair that has been adversely impacted by environmental stressors like UV exposure, pollution and heat styling, and biological and hormonal shifts. — Jenny B. Fine, Footwear News, 25 Aug. 2026 While drought and heat often go hand in hand, the two stressors can also act independently. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 21 Aug. 2026 Aloe and Centella asiatica lend soothing benefits, antioxidant-rich green tea defends against environmental stressors, and ceramides support the skin barrier. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 20 Aug. 2026 Threat assessment examines the person of concern, the context and trajectory of their behaviour, the stressors and stabilisers around them, their access and capability, and the opportunities for intervention. — Control Risks, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 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

Rhymes for stressor

See All Rhymes for stressor

Browse Nearby Words

stress-meter
stressor
stress-rhythm
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stressor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stressor. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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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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