stimulant

noun

stim·​u·​lant ˈstim-yə-lənt How to pronounce stimulant (audio)
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
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
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.
Caffeine Caffeine is a stimulant that wakes you up and promotes energy. Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 30 Oct. 2024 However, there are specific stimulants that can aggravate or bring it on. Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 29 Oct. 2024 Some potential causes for an inability to sleep can include: Caffeine or Nicotine Consumption Too Close to Bedtime Caffeine is a stimulant found in coffee, colas, chocolate, and certain teas. Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 25 Oct. 2024 On the other hand, cannabis is a substance that can be a stimulant or a depressant. Rowan Briggs, The Mercury News, 25 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for stimulant 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1728, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of stimulant was circa 1728

Dictionary Entries Near stimulant

Cite this Entry

“Stimulant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stimulant. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

stimulant

noun
stim·​u·​lant ˈstim-yə-lənt How to pronounce stimulant (audio)
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 How to pronounce stimulant (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on stimulant

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