spreader

noun

spread·​er ˈspre-dər How to pronounce spreader (audio)
: 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 A week to 10 days later, black spot becomes a super spreader! Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Apr. 2024 The more clicks and views a spreader of these rumors gets, the more their voice is amplified and able to be monetized. Elise Taylor, Vogue, 5 Mar. 2024 Increasingly, Russia and other disinformation spreaders use encrypted messaging sites or websites that masquerade as legitimate news outlets. David Klepper, The Christian Science Monitor, 1 Mar. 2024 Look for small sets of spreaders to store for a favorite hostess, for impromptu holiday gifts next year, or just for your own use. Charlotte Observer, 30 Jan. 2024 On one hand, real consequences have come for spreaders of disinformation. Brandy Zadrozny, NBC News, 18 Jan. 2024 And skip the spinning-wing decoys, squirters, and jerk-cord decoy spreaders that create too much commotion. T. Edward Nickens, Field & Stream, 27 Dec. 2023 Worse, politicians are among the spreaders of disinformation. Bill Novelli, Fortune, 13 Feb. 2024 Among the shop’s offerings are high-quality knives and saucepans, an eclectic assortment of cake stands and unusual gadgets like crepe spreaders, dough whisks and citrus juicers. Natalie Wallington, Kansas City Star, 30 Jan. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'spreader.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spreader was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near spreader

Cite this Entry

“Spreader.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spreader. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

spreader

noun
spread·​er ˈspred-ər How to pronounce spreader (audio)
: one that spreads: as
a
: an implement for scattering material
b
: a small knife used especially for spreading butter
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!