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

Today, that same brand may simultaneously sell through Amazon, Walmart Marketplace, TikTok Shop, Shopify, wholesale distributors, specialty retailers and regional grocery chains. — Tom Wicky, Forbes.com, 20 Oct. 2026

The unconventional financing structure did not prevent the filmmakers from securing a traditional theatrical distributor. — Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 20 Oct. 2026

Siddiq puts out multiple specials a year on YouTube, to millions of views, while helping to uplift up-and-coming comics as an executive producer and distributor for their specials. — Matt Grobar, Deadline, 20 Oct. 2026

The line is wholesaling to independent work stores, farm and ranch accounts, safety distributors and strong online partners. — Jennie Bell, Footwear News, 20 Oct. 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