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.
Get a general overview of palms, including historical significance, biology, morphology, stressors and how to best care for palms in the landscape. Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 5 Mar. 2025 Comprehensive recovery aligns with deep understanding of career demands and stressors. Jaime Catmull, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025 But skin-care products and habits, like harsh chemical exfoliants and cleansing too often (yes, that’s a thing), can inadvertently harm the skin's moisture barrier, which is the outermost layer of the skin (also known as the epidermis) that guards against external stressors. Sarah Han, Allure, 4 Mar. 2025 Many trees die in forests over time because of diseases and pests or environmental stressors including climate change. Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 4 Mar. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Stressor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stressor. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.

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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