Stimulant: meaning, definitions and examples

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stimulant

[ ˈstɪmjʊlənt ]

^{Context #1}

medical

A substance that increases activity in the body, especially of the nervous system, and makes you feel more awake and energetic.

Synonyms

energizer, pick-me-up, upper

Examples of usage

Many people rely on caffeine as a stimulant to help them wake up in the morning.
Amphetamines are powerful stimulants that can have serious side effects if misused.

^{Context #2}

general

Something that helps to make a process or activity more active or effective.

Synonyms

catalyst, encouragement, motivator

Examples of usage

The new policy acted as a stimulant for the economy, leading to increased growth.
The competition provided a stimulant for innovation within the industry.

^{Context #3}

rare

Having the effect of stimulating someone or something.

Synonyms

energizing, invigorating

Examples of usage

The stimulant effects of the music energized the crowd.
Her words had a stimulant impact on his motivation.

Translations

Translations of the word "stimulant" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estimulante

🇮🇳 उत्तेजक

🇩🇪 Stimulans

🇮🇩 stimulan

🇺🇦 стимулятор

🇵🇱 stymulant

🇯🇵 刺激剤

🇫🇷 stimulant

🇪🇸 estimulante

🇹🇷 uyarıcı

🇰🇷 자극제

🇸🇦 منشط

🇨🇿 stimulant

🇸🇰 stimulant

🇨🇳 兴奋剂

🇸🇮 stimulans

🇮🇸 örvandi

🇰🇿 стимулятор

🇬🇪 სტიმულატორი

🇦🇿 stimulyator

🇲🇽 estimulante

Word origin

The word 'stimulant' originated in the late 18th century, derived from the Latin word 'stimulare', meaning 'to goad' or 'to urge on'. The concept of stimulants has been present in various forms throughout history, with substances like caffeine, amphetamines, and other drugs being used to increase alertness and energy levels. Stimulants have been both celebrated for their ability to enhance performance and productivity, as well as criticized for their potential for abuse and negative health effects.