spreader

noun

spread·​er ˈspre-dər How to pronounce spreader (audio)
: one that spreads: such as
a
: an implement for scattering material
b
: a small knife used especially for spreading butter
c
: a device (such as a bar) holding two linear elements (such as lines, guys, rails) apart and usually taut

Examples of spreader in a Sentence

Mosquito are spreaders of disease.
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.
This feat is achieved via a combination of internal spreader bars and structural arcs. New Atlas, 11 Apr. 2025 Pre-emergent killers usually come in solid forms that require the use of specific lawn care equipment, such as a pellet spreader. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 24 Mar. 2025 Several users have pointed out that, when asked who the biggest spreader of misinformation on X is, Grok's response is Musk. Raul A. Reyes, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025 Deer mice are also the most common spreader of hantavirus.1 Why Are Mice Bad Inside Your Home? Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 19 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for spreader

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spreader was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Spreader.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spreader. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

spreader

noun
spread·​er ˈspred-ər How to pronounce spreader (audio)
: one that spreads: as
a
: an implement for scattering material
b
: a small knife used especially for spreading butter
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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