Stimulus Meaning

UK /ˈstɪmjʊləs/
US /ˈstɪmjələs/
Word Definition
stimulus meaning

Stimulus Definition & Usage

noun

Something that causes a reaction or response, especially in a physiological, psychological, or environmental context.

Examples

  • "The loud noise served as a stimulus for the dog to start barking."
  • "In psychology, a stimulus can trigger an automatic emotional response."
  • "Economic stimulus packages are designed to encourage spending and boost the economy."
  • "The bright light was a stimulus that made her squint."
  • "The teacher's praise acted as a positive stimulus for the student's hard work."
noun

An action or policy aimed at encouraging economic activity or growth, typically involving government spending or intervention.

Examples

  • "The government introduced a large stimulus package to combat the recession."
  • "Tax cuts are a common form of economic stimulus used to boost consumer spending."
  • "The central bank is considering new stimulus measures to support the economy."
  • "Stimulus funds were allocated to infrastructure projects to create jobs."
  • "The economic stimulus was seen as essential to revive the flagging economy."

Cultural Context

The word 'stimulus' comes from the Latin word 'stimulus,' meaning a goad or spur, often used metaphorically for something that causes an action or reaction. Over time, its use has expanded into various fields, from psychology to economics. In modern usage, it plays a central role in discussions about human behavior, neuroscience, and economic policy.

The Ripple Effect of a Stimulus

Story

The Ripple Effect of a Stimulus

On a bright summer day, Sarah found herself sitting in the park, lost in thought. As the warm sun beamed down on her, she felt a strange sense of peace wash over her—a physical stimulus that seemed to relax her body. She closed her eyes and listened to the birds chirping in the trees, each note a subtle trigger for her mind to wander. It was as though the environment itself was encouraging her to reflect. Nearby, a group of children were playing, their laughter acting as a stimulus for the other park-goers to smile or glance their way. One child, with a brightly colored kite, ran across the field, the bright colors stimulating the attention of everyone nearby. Back at home, Sarah's mind shifted to the news. The government had just passed a major economic stimulus package to combat the growing recession. The package was designed to stimulate job growth and encourage businesses to invest again. Sarah had been skeptical at first, unsure if the stimulus would have the desired impact. But as the days went on, she saw evidence of it: more people out shopping, new businesses opening, and a palpable shift in public optimism. Later that evening, her thoughts returned to a recent conversation with a friend. 'Sometimes,' her friend had said, 'all we need is a little stimulus to get moving. Whether it’s a kind word, a burst of sunshine, or a helping hand, something has to trigger that first spark.' Sarah smiled, realizing how much truth lay in those words. The following week, Sarah received a small, unexpected bonus at work—an economic stimulus in her own life, a boost to her morale and a reminder of the power of even the smallest encouragements. It was the kind of motivation that could have a lasting ripple effect. In all these instances, the word 'stimulus' had played a role, whether in the form of sunlight, government intervention, or human interaction. Each one served as a catalyst, sparking responses, emotions, and actions that would continue to reverberate throughout the day.

The Ripple Effect of a Stimulus