distributor
Distributor (noun) means a company or person that supplies goods from a manufacturer to shops or customers. Example: “The film found a US distributor at the festival.”
noun
1
A company or person that supplies goods from a manufacturer to shops or customers.
"The film found a US distributor at the festival."
"The small publisher signed a distributor to get its books into shops nationwide."
"Our local distributor delivers fresh drinks to the cafes every Tuesday."
2
A part in an older car engine that sends electric current to the spark plugs in sequence.
"The mechanic replaced the worn distributor cap."
"The car refused to start because damp had got inside the distributor."
"My grandfather taught me to set the timing by turning the distributor."
How to use distributor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone (or something) whose job is to get goods, or electric current, to where they need to go.
Common pairings
exclusive distributor
distributor cap
film distributor
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like distributor.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- distributors
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The film found a US _____ at the festival.
Etymology
Formed from distribute plus the agent suffix -or, meaning "one who distributes."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for distributor
See all rhymes for 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.
