separator

noun

sep·​a·​ra·​tor ˈse-pə-ˌrā-tər 

ˈse-ˌprā-tər

: one that separates

especially : a device for separating liquids of different specific gravities (such as cream from milk) or liquids from solids

Synonyms

• divider
• division
• partition
• separation

Examples of separator in a Sentence

the toddler insisted on a dinner plate with separators so that different foods would never touch one another

Recent Examples on the Web

Sasaki said in his introductory press conference last week that the Dodgers' stable ownership situation was the most impressive separator between Los Angeles and the other two finalists in his group of three: the San Diego Padres and Toronto Blue Jays. —Barbara A. Perry, Newsweek, 28 Jan. 2025

The whole league is wary of placing too much emphasis on regular-season results — experience has shown to be a great separator come playoff time. —Joe Vardon, The Athletic, 6 Jan. 2025

These upcoming games will be a big separator for Fland. 23. —Sam Vecenie, The Athletic, 9 Jan. 2025

Catch up fast: Lithium-ion batteries consist of an anode, a cathode, and a separator. —Alan Neuhauser, Axios, 9 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

separator

noun

sep·​a·​ra·​tor ˈsep-ə-ˌrāt-ər 

: one that separates

especially : a device for separating liquids (as cream from milk) of different densities or liquids from solids

Medical Definition

separator

noun

sep·​a·​ra·​tor ˈsep-(ə-)ˌrāt-ər 

: one that separates: as

a

: a device for separating liquids of different specific gravities (as cream from milk) or liquids from solids

b

: a dental appliance for separating adjoining teeth to give access to their surfaces