stimulus

Meaning

1. An external phenomenon that has an influence on a system, by triggering or modifying an internal phenomenon; for example, a spur or incentive that drives a person to take action or change behaviour.
2. Something external that elicits or influences a physiological or psychological activity or response, or that affects any of the sensory apparatuses.
3. A stinging part on the body of a plant or insect.

Synonyms

incentive

impetus

motive

incitement

spur

stimulant

stimulation

inspiration

encouragement

motivation

inducement

prod

instigation

agent

fillip

goad

prodding

provocation

impulse

excitement

drive

stimulator

input

abetment

catalyst

causative agent

excitation

irritant

irritation

momentum

pathogen

push

urge

yen

💴

causal organism

influence

goading

propellant

germ

stimulus object

reinforcer

shock

⚡

shove

spring

enticement

spurring

bracer

afflatus

advice

stimuli

Translations

estímulo

estímulo

stimolo

stimulus

prikkel

Stimulus

aansporing

Reiz

Auslöseimpuls

Ansporn

prikkeling

stimulatie

Anregung

stimulation

Pronounced as (IPA)

/ˈstɪm.jə.ləs/

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin stimulus (“goad, prick”).