distributor
5 synonyms for distributor, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A company or person that supplies goods from a manufacturer to shops or customers.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use distributor
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
exclusive distributor
distributor cap
film distributor
Etymology
Formed from distribute plus the agent suffix -or, meaning "one who distributes."
Full origin of distributor →Frequently asked questions
What does “distributor” mean?
The word “distributor” means a company or person that supplies goods from a manufacturer to shops or customers. In plain terms, someone (or something) whose job is to get goods, or electric current, to where they need to go.
How do you use “distributor” in a sentence?
Here is “distributor” used in a sentence: “The film found a US distributor at the festival.”
What part of speech is “distributor”?
“Distributor” is a noun.
Is “distributor” a common word?
“Distributor” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “distributor” have?
“Distributor” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a company or person that supplies goods from a manufacturer to shops or customers.
What is the difference between a distributor and a wholesaler?
A distributor is a company or person that supplies goods from a manufacturer to shops or customers, often handling logistics, marketing, and regional sales rights. A wholesaler typically buys goods in bulk and resells them to retailers, and while the roles can overlap, distributors often have closer, more official relationships with manufacturers.
What does distributor mean in a car engine?
In older car engines, a distributor is a part that sends electric current to the spark plugs in the correct sequence, timing the ignition of fuel in each cylinder. This mechanical component has largely been replaced by electronic ignition systems in modern vehicles.
What is the difference between a distributor and a retailer?
A distributor operates between the manufacturer and the retailer, supplying goods in bulk to shops or businesses rather than selling directly to individual consumers. A retailer is the business that sells products directly to the end customer, often purchasing stock from a distributor.
