stressor

[stres-er, -awr] / ˈstrɛs ər, -ɔr /

NOUN

something which causes stress

Synonyms

STRONG

aggravation annoyance

WEAK

bellyache headache inconvenience irritant nuisance pain pressure trouble worry

Antonyms

STRONGEST

relaxer

WEAK

convenience pleasure

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Finances are a stressor; likewise his rather abundant weight and tendency to stress-eat.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 26, 2026

Nearly half of adults cited the cost of housing as a major stressor, according to a summer survey from the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

From MarketWatch • Nov. 4, 2025

“I almost can’t think of a worse psychological stressor than being bullied by a community that you value.”

From Slate • Nov. 1, 2025

In this new study, the researchers wanted to know whether a sense of personal control -- how much people feel they can influence their daily challenges -- affects whether a stressor gets resolved.

From Science Daily • Oct. 20, 2025

“Money was very much a stressor during my pregnancy and postpartum period,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 15, 2025