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

Its job is to connect heritage houses and independent perfumers with retailers, distributors and buyers in a market where, by the organizer’s count, fragrance makes up 49 percent of luxury beauty spending. — Ritu Upadhyay, Footwear News, 30 Sep. 2026

Our positive thesis on the healthcare services and drug distributor was reinforced on Wednesday by analysts at Leerink after a meeting with the company’s CFO and investor relations team. — Jeff Marks, CNBC, 30 Sep. 2026

In prior carriage disputes, distributors have encouraged their customers to sign up for Starz on streaming platforms. — Denise Petski, Deadline, 30 Sep. 2026

Zada aims to complete the project by next week, and the film is still seeking a distributor. — Corbin Bolies, Variety, 30 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