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.
Attorneys at Reed Smith note that a publisher or distributor put on notice of an undisclosed synthetic performer has five days to remove the ad or bring it into compliance. — Gabriel Alin Zainescu, Forbes.com, 25 July 2026 Omar introduced the bill, the Maintaining Essential Access to Lunch for Students Act, that drastically relaxed eligibility requirements for food distributors to be able to receive reimbursements during the COVID-19 school shutdowns. — Mia Cathell, The Washington Examiner, 24 July 2026 Those partners include media companies, foreign producers and distributors that can provide market access, industry expertise and long-term strategic value. — Lin Ying-Hsuan, Variety, 24 July 2026 When GKids, the North American distributor for Ghibli, and Fathom Entertainment launched Ghibli Fest in 2017, its five titles accounted for $5 million in ticket sales. — ABC News, 23 July 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 1 Aug. 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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