spreader

noun

spread·​er ˈspre-dər 

: one that spreads: such as

a

: an implement for scattering material

b

: a small knife used especially for spreading butter

c

: a device (such as a bar) holding two linear elements (such as lines, guys, rails) apart and usually taut

Examples of spreader in a Sentence

Mosquito are spreaders of disease.

Recent Examples on the Web

This includes fabric spreaders, feeders, roll loaders, spreading tables and related software. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 8 Sep. 2026

To apply soil alkalizers, spread your product of choice over your soil by hand or with a broadcast spreader. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Sep. 2026

The seed can be spread using a walk-behind or hand-cranked spreader. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 4 Sep. 2026

Durston spreads the ceiling height out via its extended single-pole roofline and a spreader crossbar. — New Atlas, 16 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing spreader

• silent spreader
• super-spreader

Rhymes for spreader

• cheddar
• header
• redder
• shredder

Kids Definition

spreader

noun

spread·​er ˈspred-ər 

: one that spreads: as

a

: an implement for scattering material

b

: a small knife used especially for spreading butter