distributor

noun

dis·​trib·​u·​tor di-ˈstri-byü-tər 

-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

There’s also the state’s carbon tax, which is paid by gasoline retailers and distributors but passed along to drivers at the pump. —Chris Isidore, CNN Money, 20 Dec. 2025

Japanese entertainment heavyweight Toho is stepping up its global expansion, unveiling plans Friday to establish a European headquarters while acquiring British anime distributor Anime Limited and entering into a strategic alliance with Germany’s Plaion Pictures. —Patrick Brzeski, HollywoodReporter, 19 Dec. 2025

As one of the most influential distributors of independent and international film in the world, the company has championed bold, socially conscious storytelling and brought acclaimed films to global audiences. —Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 19 Dec. 2025

The distributor did not immediately respond to a request for comment Friday. —Desiree Mathurin december 19, Charlotte Observer, 19 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1526, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for distributor

• contributor

Kids Definition

distributor

noun

dis·​trib·​u·​tor dis-ˈtrib-yət-ər 

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