distributor

noun

dis·​trib·​u·​tor di-ˈstri-byü-tər How to pronounce distributor (audio)
-byə-
Synonyms of distributornext
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 distributor will platform a qualifying run and broaden in January. — Anne Thompson, IndieWire, 5 Sep. 2026 For now, retailers can keep selling the drinks and consumers can continue buying them, but distributors may become increasingly reluctant to replenish inventory while Congress debates the category's future. — Brandon Gomez, CNBC, 4 Sep. 2026 Then an equipment distributor, same quarter different industry, midway through absorbing the last rule when the next one landed. — Keegan Crage, Forbes.com, 4 Sep. 2026 Gathering In Le Havre The main French distributors are in town, as usual. — Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 3 Sep. 2026 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

Rhymes for distributor

See All Rhymes for distributor

Browse Nearby Words

distributivity
distributor
distributorship
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Distributor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/distributor. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on distributor

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for distributor

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about distributor

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