stimulus
//ˈstɪmjələs//
Noun
stimulusSingular
stimuliPlural
1
Something that causes a reaction or response in a living organism, especially a physical or psychological change
Light is a stimulus that causes the pupil to contract.
2
Something that encourages activity, development, or greater effort; an incentive or boost
The tax cuts provided a stimulus for economic growth.
3
In biology and psychology, an agent, action, or condition that elicits or accelerates a physiological or psychological response
Light is a visual stimulus that triggers a response in the eye.