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

Jesper Bratt plays the distributor role for the Devils. —Nicholas Creel, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Apr. 2025

And take the famous hand flex scene, so well known that distributor Focus Features is now selling T-shirts and hoodies emblazoned with Macfadyen’s outstretched hand. —Leah Asmelash, CNN Money, 19 Apr. 2025

Tariff distributor strategy: More intelligent and flexible procurement Distributors will need to adjust procurement strategies in light of new tariffs and other federal policies. —Werner Baumbach, Forbes.com, 17 Apr. 2025

Boutique distributor Limonero Films is handling sales and has cut the international deals. —Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 15 Apr. 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