Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

external stimulus

Noun

/ɪkˈstɜrnəl ˈstɪmjələs/

Definition

An external stimulus refers to any agent or event from outside an organism that elicits a response or reaction.

Examples

The sound of a bell is an external stimulus that can prompt a person to look up.
Bright lights can serve as an external stimulus for many animals, causing them to react or move.
In therapy, external stimuli such as music can help evoke memories and emotional responses.

Meaning

In biological and psychological contexts, an external stimulus is anything from the environment that can trigger sensory perception or influence behavior.