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.
Health insurance anxiety is compounded by broader stressors in people’s lives right now, Schultz said. Cathie Anderson, Sacbee.com, 1 Jan. 2026 When kids anchor their efforts in something beyond themselves, everyday stressors become more manageable. Jennifer Breheny Wallace, CNBC, 28 Dec. 2025 Quality rest and leisure periods can buffer these stressors, promoting recovery and well-being. Stacy Shaw, Fortune, 26 Dec. 2025 For Lacy, driving in the snow and bad road conditions every day to get her daughter to school is a constant stressor in her life. Caroline Beck, IndyStar, 26 Dec. 2025 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 3 Jan. 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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