stimulant
noun
stim·u·lant
ˈstim-yə-lənt 
1
: an agent (such as a drug) that produces a temporary increase of the functional activity or efficiency of an organism or any of its parts
2
: stimulus
3
: an alcoholic beverage
—not used technically
stimulant
adjective
Examples of stimulant in a Sentence
The movie was a stimulant to discussion.
the relaxed zoning regulations should serve as a stimulant for development in the area
Recent Examples on the Web
View gallery - 3 images Not everyone with ADHD responds to stimulants like Ritalin, which increase dopamine levels in the brain.
—
New Atlas, 14 Apr. 2025
One big study found that stimulants were more effective than other interventions only for the first 14 months of treatment.
—Adam B. Kushner, New York Times, 13 Apr. 2025
For example, stimulants (like decongestants and certain cold medications) can increase heart rate and metabolism, leading to a higher calorie burn.
—Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 7 Apr. 2025
Individuals taking medication that could negatively interact with stimulants may also experience adverse effects.
—Paul Du Quenoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for stimulant
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New Atlas, 14 Apr. 2025
One big study found that stimulants were more effective than other interventions only for the first 14 months of treatment.
—Adam B. Kushner, New York Times, 13 Apr. 2025
For example, stimulants (like decongestants and certain cold medications) can increase heart rate and metabolism, leading to a higher calorie burn.
—Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 7 Apr. 2025
Individuals taking medication that could negatively interact with stimulants may also experience adverse effects.
—Paul Du Quenoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for stimulant
Cite this Entry
“Stimulant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stimulant. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
stimulant
noun
stim·u·lant
ˈstim-yə-lənt
1
: something (as a drug) that temporarily increases the activity or efficiency of the body or one of its parts
a heart stimulant
2
stimulant
adjective
Medical Definition
stimulant
noun
stim·u·lant
ˈstim-yə-lənt
1
: an agent (as a drug) that produces a temporary increase of the functional activity or efficiency of an organism or any of its parts
2
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