stressful

adjective

stress·​ful ˈstres-fəl How to pronounce stressful (audio)
Synonyms of stressfulnext
: full of or tending to induce stress
stressfully adverb

Examples of stressful in a Sentence

I had a stressful day at work today.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The four spinner wheels glide effortlessly, making crowded terminals and tight connections way less stressful. Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 3 May 2026 Cozy and Self-Care Gifts Teaching can be stressful, and these picks give them a small way to unwind — whether that’s during a quiet moment at their desk or while grading papers at home. Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 1 May 2026 The Antioch Police Department has launched a program designed to make traffic stops safer and less stressful for drivers with autism and other communication challenges. Eric Henderson, CBS News, 1 May 2026 The Newcastle game was so stressful. Amy Lawrence, New York Times, 1 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for stressful

Word History

First Known Use

1846, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of stressful was in 1846

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stressful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stressful. Accessed 6 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

stressful

adjective
stress·​ful ˈstres-fəl How to pronounce stressful (audio)
: full of or tending to cause stress
stressfully adverb

Medical Definition

stressful

adjective
stress·​ful ˈstres-fəl How to pronounce stressful (audio)
: full of or subject to stress
stressful situations
stressfully adverb

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