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

The team is seeking co-producers, distributors and sales agents across Spain, France, Portugal and Belgium, and are in attendance at San Sebastián and will be at Les Arcs Industry Village. — Callum McLennan, Variety, 23 Sep. 2026

The decision cleared the way for Paramount to become among the largest theatrical distributors in the country and own a top five streamer by subscriber count, until the deal was challenged by the states. — Winston Cho, HollywoodReporter, 21 Sep. 2026

This merger leaves fewer studios competing for scripts and talent, gives one company greater power to dictate terms to distributors, and reduces streaming choices. — Jon Brodkin, ArsTechnica, 21 Sep. 2026

Wilson was accused of preventing the film's release by undermining negotiations with potential distributors and threatening an injunction against showing the film in Australia. — ABC News, 21 Sep. 2026

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