stimulus

Definitions

A thing or event that evokes a specific functional reaction in an organ or tissue.

Something that incites to action or exertion; a spur or incentive.

An agent, action, or environmental change that elicits a response in an organism.

Examples

The bright light acted as a visual stimulus that caused the pupil to contract.

The government introduced a new economic stimulus package to help struggling small businesses.

The researchers studied how the brain responds to a specific auditory stimulus.

Synonyms

incentive impetus spur motivation catalyst provocation encouragement

Antonyms

deterrent hindrance discouragement block inhibition restraint disincentive