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

Black Bear’s inaugural outing as a distributor, Christy, starring Sydney Sweeney as boxing legend Christy Martin, opens at 2,000 locations with the film tracking for a circa $3 million weekend. —Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 7 Nov. 2025

As Dubai continues to position itself as a global beauty hub, with major retailers like Ulta Beauty launching in the region, Beautyworld Middle East’s role as a connector between brands, distributors and consumers becomes increasingly vital. —Ritu Upadhyay, Footwear News, 7 Nov. 2025

Discussions with potential German distributors are ongoing. —Leo Barraclough, Variety, 7 Nov. 2025

Officials said the batch of moringa powder was supplied to multiple distributors across the United States. —Amaris Encinas, USA Today, 4 Nov. 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