pollinator

noun

pol·​li·​na·​tor ˈpä-lə-ˌnā-tər How to pronounce pollinator (audio)
: one that pollinates: such as
a
: an agent (such as an insect) that pollinates flowers
b
: pollenizer sense 1

Examples of pollinator 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.
Growers pollinate their plants by hand, replacing insect pollinators. — Cameron Pugh, Christian Science Monitor, 16 Oct. 2026 In late spring and summer, the showy flowers emit a light scent and attract all kinds of pollinators. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 15 Oct. 2026 While honeybees pass the winter in sheltered hives, the vast majority of North America’s native pollinators do not. — Manjot Kaur Sidhu, The Conversation, 9 Oct. 2026 Besides helping pollinators, the agreements can help utilities carry out their work. — Susan Degrane, Chicago Tribune, 8 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pollinator

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pollinator was in 1883

Rhymes for pollinator

See All Rhymes for pollinator

Browse Nearby Words

pollination
pollinator
polling book
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pollinator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pollinator. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

pollinator

noun
pol·​li·​na·​tor ˈpäl-ə-ˌnāt-ər How to pronounce pollinator (audio)
: something (as an insect) that pollinates flowers
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