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 film starts from a point of frustration about a lack of governmental care, and a community falling apart from the stressors of being left with no support. — Kambole Campbell, Variety, 11 Oct. 2026 Generally, once the stressor (in these specific cases, the male partner) is removed, women start to feel like themselves again. — Georgia Casey, Allure, 9 Oct. 2026 And stressors like financial difficulties, illness, work responsibilities, parenting and major life changes can test even the most in-sync couples. — Anna Borges, Washington Post, 9 Oct. 2026 Whitney blamed the loss of their business in 2025 as a major stressor on their relationship. — Deborah Day, Los Angeles Times, 7 Oct. 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 20 Oct. 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
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