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.
The framework describes the pressure many Black women experience to remain resilient, suppress vulnerability, care for others, and persevere despite significant stressors. Maia Niguel Hoskin, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 On top of that, Sodexo has to confront ingredient variabilities due to the seasonality of fresh produce and volatile food prices; the latter linked to external stressors such as the war in Iran and global tariffs. John Kell, Fortune, 1 July 2026 That disconnect is a problem in an environment of growing daily stressors, from rising federal law enforcement presence to social welfare cuts that prevent many from meeting basic needs. Literary Hub, 30 June 2026 Daily stressors may stir up deeper internal friction. Usa Today, USA Today, 26 June 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 6 Jul. 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
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