EUSTRESS

PRONUNCIATION: (YOO-stres)

MEANING: noun: A positive, beneficial form of stress.

ETYMOLOGY: Coined by the endocrinologist Hans Selye (1907-1982). From Greek eu- (good) + stress, from shortening of distress or from Old French estressei (narrowness or oppression), from Latin strictus, from stringere (to bind tight). Earliest documented use: 1950s.

NOTES: Eustress is happy stress. Some examples of eustress are excitement at starting a new job, an upcoming wedding, etc. In general, mild stress works as eustress, bringing motivation and spurring action. Too much stress results in distress.
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EDUSTRESS - the SATs

EUSTLESS - of no value whatsoever

EUSTRUSS - what to do if you get a hernia