stimulus
US /ˈstɪm.jə.ləs/
UK /ˈstɪm.jə.ləs/
1.
a thing or event that evokes a specific functional reaction in an organ or tissue
:
•
Light is a stimulus for the eyes.
•
The drug acts as a stimulus to the nervous system.
2.
a thing that arouses activity or energy in someone or something; a spur or incentive
:
•
The tax cuts provided a much-needed stimulus to the economy.
•
His encouragement was a great stimulus to her confidence.