separator

noun

sep·​a·​ra·​tor ˈse-pə-ˌrā-tər 

ˈse-ˌprā-tər

: one that separates

especially : a device for separating liquids of different specific gravities (such as cream from milk) or liquids from solids

Synonyms

• divider
• division
• partition
• separation

Examples of separator in a Sentence

the toddler insisted on a dinner plate with separators so that different foods would never touch one another

Recent Examples on the Web

This looks like a separator for the group and an area that, in theory, shouldn’t slump. .344 The Cubs have the third-highest BABIP with runners in scoring position. —Sahadev Sharma, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025

Iowa State is a sort of the separator between the top and bottom of the Big 12, going 0-5 against the teams higher in the standings and undefeated against the teams below it. —Mark Schindler, The Athletic, 12 Feb. 2025

This whimsical egg separator is all but foolproof: simple to use, easy to clean, and makes quick work of this finicky kitchen task. —Miles Walls, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Apr. 2025

The plan includes installing a two-way bike lane with concrete separators, lighting upgrades, and traffic signals. —Isaac Avilucea, Axios, 17 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for separator

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

Kids Definition

separator

noun

sep·​a·​ra·​tor ˈsep-ə-ˌrāt-ər 

: one that separates

especially : a device for separating liquids (as cream from milk) of different densities or liquids from solids

Medical Definition

separator

noun

sep·​a·​ra·​tor ˈsep-(ə-)ˌrāt-ər 

: one that separates: as

a

: a device for separating liquids of different specific gravities (as cream from milk) or liquids from solids

b

: a dental appliance for separating adjoining teeth to give access to their surfaces