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

But the internet has opened avenues for disgruntled distributors to connect and complain. —Book Marks june 20, Literary Hub, 20 June 2025

Netflix may be acting more and more like conventional TV networks, presenting live NFL games and WWE bouts and selling ads, but becoming a full-fledged distributor would entail grinding out carriage deals with programmers with large portfolios. —Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 19 June 2025

For decades, Sony produced the series (having acquired original producer Merv Griffin’s production company) while CBS was the syndication distributor (having acquired original distribber King World). —Michael Schneider, Variety, 18 June 2025

Emek-brand Pistachio Cream — a product sold online for wholesale distributors, restaurants, and food service locations across the country — has been linked to a salmonella outbreak in at least two states, the FDA said. —Natalie Neysa Alund, USA Today, 18 June 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