reinforcer

noun

re·​in·​forc·​er ˌrē-ən-ˈfȯr-sər How to pronounce reinforcer (audio)
: a stimulus (such as a reward or the removal of an electric shock) that increases the probability of a desired response in operant conditioning by being applied or effected following the desired response

Examples of reinforcer in a Sentence

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 actual job for human reinforcers can be mind-numbing. — Katie Kilkenny, HollywoodReporter, 24 June 2026 As for what dog owners can take away from this, Reimer says that on a practical level, toy play can be a good reinforcer for canines. — Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 9 Oct. 2025 But in my experience, reinforcers, or what happens after someone tries something new, matter far more. — Sarah Elk, Forbes.com, 30 Mar. 2026 Kearsley intends to introduce the framework to adults first, positioning them as reinforcers of the model at home. — Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 13 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for reinforcer

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of reinforcer was in 1890

Rhymes for reinforcer

See All Rhymes for reinforcer

Browse Nearby Words

reinforcement
reinforcer
reinforcing agent
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Reinforcer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reinforcer. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

reinforcer

noun
re·​in·​forc·​er ˌrē-ən-ˈfōr-sər How to pronounce reinforcer (audio)
-ˈfȯr-
1
: one that reinforces
2
: a stimulus (as a reward or the removal of something unpleasant) given after a desired action or reply that helps to make the individual act or reply in the same way when the conditions are repeated

Medical Definition

reinforcer

noun
re·​in·​forc·​er -ˈfōr-sər, -ˈfȯr- How to pronounce reinforcer (audio)
: a stimulus (as a reward or removal of an electric shock) that increases the probability of a desired response in operant conditioning by being applied or removed following the desired response
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