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 distributor plans a special screening event Monday across AMC Dolby Cinema screens, the first time debuting in that format. —Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 23 Jan. 2026

The Italian group also operates Rocca, the multibrand watch and jewelry distributor, and heritage watchmaker. —Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 22 Jan. 2026

Except the movie the arthouse distributor bought actually premiered at last year’s Sundance. —Brian Welk, IndieWire, 22 Jan. 2026

It's bought other companies, too, including building-products distributor GMS last year. —Melissa Repko, CNBC, 22 Jan. 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