distributor

noun

dis·​trib·​u·​tor di-ˈstri-byü-tər How to pronounce distributor (audio)
-byə-
1
: one that distributes
2
: one that markets a commodity
especially : wholesaler
3
: an apparatus for directing the secondary current from the induction coil to the various spark plugs of an engine in their proper firing order

Examples of distributor 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 film will feature as part of the upcoming Cartoon Movie lineup in Bordeaux and the producers are seeking partnerships with private investors, broadcasters, and distributors. Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 4 Mar. 2025 This could include suppliers, distributors, service providers and industry influencers or even businesses in adjacent markets. Wendy Cai-Lee, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025 The director continued his speech by emphasizing the importance of the movie-going experience for audiences, filmmakers and distributors. Jack Smart, People.com, 3 Mar. 2025 Palestinian activist Basel Adra and Jewish Israeli journalist Yuval Abraham accepted the award for the film, which at present does not have a U.S. distributor and documents the community between 2019 and 2023. Jami Ganz, New York Daily News, 3 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for distributor

Word History

First Known Use

1526, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of distributor was in 1526

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Cite this Entry

“Distributor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/distributor. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

distributor

noun
dis·​trib·​u·​tor dis-ˈtrib-yət-ər How to pronounce distributor (audio)
1
: one that distributes
2
: an agent or agency for marketing goods
3
: a device that sends electric current to the spark plugs of an engine so that they fire in the proper order
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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