Meaning & Definition of word "Stimulus"

Stimulus

/ˈstɪm.jə.ləs/

noun:

  • 1. Something that incites to action or exertion or quickens action, feeling, or thought.
    • Example: The government provided a financial stimulus to boost the economy during the recession.
  • 2. An agent, event, or condition that elicits a response.
    • Example: Light is a stimulus that can trigger a response in photosensitive plants.
  • 3. A factor that increases the rate of a process or activity.
    • Example: The teacher used various learning stimuli to engage the students and enhance their understanding of the subject.

Etymology

Latin 'stimulus', meaning 'goad, prod, or incentive'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

economic stimulus:

Government actions to encourage economic growth.

stimulus package:

A package of measures taken by a government to stimulate the economy.

stimulus response:

A reaction to a specific external factor.

Related Words

stimulate:

To encourage or activate a process or activity.

stimulation:

The act of encouraging growth or activity.

stimuli:

Plural form of stimulus; things that provoke a response.

Slang Meanings of stimulus

Meaning: A financial aid or incentive.

Example Sentence: That tax rebate was a nice stimulus for my budget.

Meaning: Something that boosts energy or motivation.

Example Sentence: That coffee was the perfect stimulus to get me through the afternoon.