radiator

noun

ra·​di·​a·​tor ˈrā-dē-ˌā-tər 

 dialectal  ˈra-

: one that radiates: such as

a

: any of various devices (such as a series of pipes or tubes) for transferring heat from a fluid within to an area or object outside

b

: a transmitting antenna

Examples of radiator in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

That’s because Lian Li decided instead to include adapter brackets in its installation kit for those who would like to install a standard-size front-panel radiator. —PC Magazine, 14 Sep. 2025

He’s been known to use low folding screens as camouflage for radiators, and all sizes as room dividers—a trick Wilson employs as well. —Monika Biegler Eyers, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Sep. 2025

Hydrogen and helium atoms are not efficient radiators below several thousand degrees, but molecular hydrogen, H₂, is great at cooling gas at low temperatures. —Luke Keller, Space.com, 7 Sep. 2025

The affected vehicles are equipped with a left-side radiator/fan combination where excess fuel may spill into the vehicle fuel-filler pocket and leak onto an ignition source, according to the NHTSA. —James Powel, USA Today, 2 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1836, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for radiator

• activator
• actuator
• agitator
• alligator
• allocator
• alternator
• animator
• annotator
• applicator
• arbitrator
• aspirator
• aviator

Kids Definition

radiator

noun

ra·​di·​a·​tor ˈrād-ē-ˌāt-ər 

: one that radiates

especially : any of various devices (as a set of pipes or tubes) for transferring heat from a fluid within to an area or object outside