Word
stimulus
Meanings
Something that causes a person, animal, or system to react or respond.
In biology or psychology, an external change (such as light, sound, or touch) that produces a response in a living organism.
In economics, a government action or money injection intended to encourage spending and boost economic activity.
Definition
A stimulus is something that causes a reaction or response.
A stimulus is anything that makes a person or animal notice something and respond. It can be a sound, light, smell, touch, or an event that changes how someone behaves. In biology and psychology, it is the thing that triggers a response in the body or mind. In economics, it can also mean an action that encourages spending or growth.
Examples
- The loud noise was a stimulus that made everyone look up.
- Bright light can be a strong stimulus for the eyes.
- The teacher used a game as a stimulus for class discussion.
- The government announced a stimulus to support small businesses.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse stimulus with response and say the stimulus is the reaction rather than the trigger.
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