noun Uncommon

compressor

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Compressor (noun) means a machine that increases the pressure of a gas, such as air, by reducing its volume. Example: “The air compressor powers the pneumatic tools in the workshop.”

noun

A machine that increases the pressure of a gas, such as air, by reducing its volume.

"The air compressor powers the pneumatic tools in the workshop."

(audio) A device or software that reduces the volume difference between the loudest and quietest parts of a sound.

"The producer added a compressor to smooth out the vocal track."

How to use compressor

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA machine or tool (mechanical or digital) that squeezes something, whether gas or sound, into a more controlled form.

Common pairings

air compressor audio compressor

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Plural: compressors

Test yourself on “compressor” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The air _____ powers the pneumatic tools in the workshop.

Etymology

From "compress" + the agent suffix "-or."

Rhymes for compressor

assessor aggressor professor oppressor successor confessor processor predecessor

See all rhymes for compressor →

Frequently asked questions

What does “compressor” mean?

The word “compressor” means a machine that increases the pressure of a gas, such as air, by reducing its volume. In plain terms, a machine or tool (mechanical or digital) that squeezes something, whether gas or sound, into a more controlled form.

How do you use “compressor” in a sentence?

Here is “compressor” used in a sentence: “The air compressor powers the pneumatic tools in the workshop.”

What part of speech is “compressor”?

“Compressor” is a noun.

Is “compressor” a common word?

“Compressor” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “compressor” have?

“Compressor” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a machine that increases the pressure of a gas, such as air, by reducing its volume.