Stimulus Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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stimulus
[หstษชmjสlษs ]
Definitions
mental health
Something that causes a response or reaction in an organism. In psychology, a stimulus can be any object or event that evokes a sensory or emotional response.
Synonyms
prompt, provocation, trigger.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stimulus |
Used to describe something that encourages activity or increases action in biology, economics, or psychology.
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| trigger |
Used to refer to something that causes a sudden reaction or sets off a series of events. Often used in psychological contexts or to describe the cause of emotions or memories.
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| provocation |
Typically used in situations where an action or remark is intended to make someone angry or to incite a reaction. It often carries a negative connotation.
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| prompt |
Used when indicating a signal or a reminder for someone to do something, often in the context of a task or action.
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Examples of usage
- The loud noise was a stimulus for the baby to start crying.
- The smell of food is a stimulus that makes us hungry.
economics
Something that encourages an economic activity. In economics, a stimulus can refer to government actions or policies designed to boost the economy.
Synonyms
boost, encouragement, incentive.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stimulus |
Often used in scientific, economic, and psychological contexts to refer to something that elicits a reaction or response.
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| incentive |
Utilized in contexts where a reward or benefit is given to motivate someone to take a specific action, often related to work or performance.
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| encouragement |
Typically used when referring to words or actions that inspire someone to continue or improve, focusing on emotional support.
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| boost |
Commonly used in everyday language to describe something that improves or increases something else, generally in a positive manner.
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Examples of usage
- The tax cuts were intended to provide a stimulus to the economy.
- The government's investment in infrastructure served as a stimulus for job creation.
physiology
Something that causes a specific reaction in a cell or tissue. In physiology, a stimulus can be a physical or chemical signal that triggers a biological response.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stimulus |
Refers to something that causes a reaction or response, often used in science, psychology, and medicine.
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| signal |
Commonly used to describe a sign or indicator that conveys information, often in communication, technology, or biological systems.
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| impetus |
Used to describe a force that makes something happen or happen more quickly, often in a motivational or driving sense.
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| inducer |
Usually refers to something that brings about a reaction or change, often used in scientific and technical contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The nerve cells respond to the stimulus by sending electrical signals.
- Exposure to sunlight is a stimulus for vitamin D production in the skin.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- In psychology, a stimulus is any event or object that can evoke a response from an organism, playing a key role in behavior studies.
- The classic experiment in behaviorism involved Pavlovโs dogs, where a bell (the stimulus) caused them to salivate.
Economics
- In economic terms, a stimulus often refers to government measures intended to encourage economic activity, especially during downturns.
- Stimulus packages can include tax cuts or increased government spending to spur growth and recovery.
Natural Sciences
- Biologically, stimuli can be anything from light, heat, or sound that affects living organisms and elicits a response.
- In neuroscience, a stimulus can trigger action potentials in nerve cells, leading to sensation and perception.
Art & Literature
- In art, a stimulus can refer to a work that provokes thought or emotion, inspiring both artists and viewers.
- A piece of literature can serve as a stimulus for discussions on societal issues, prompting readers to reflect on their beliefs.
Origin of 'stimulus'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'stimulus' comes from the Latin word 'stimulus,' meaning 'goad' or 'spur,' indicating something that incites action.
- In ancient Rome, a stimulus was a tool used to poke animals, symbolizing the idea of urging or provoking a response.
The word 'stimulus' comes from the Latin word 'stimulus', meaning a goad or spur. It has been used in English since the 17th century to refer to something that incites action or response. The concept of stimulus is fundamental in various fields such as psychology, economics, and physiology, where it plays a crucial role in understanding behavior, motivation, and biological processes.