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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Until now, the only reliable ways to manage heat have involved thick insulation, bulky heat spreaders, or large passive structures. Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 14 Dec. 2025 More than 700 salt spreaders are ready to be deployed, DSNY said. Justin Lewis, CBS News, 12 Dec. 2025 And when the ground gets too rocky, soggy or scratchy, the tent leaps up into the trees on a stable spreader hammock, creating a compact, free-hanging camping pod that won't tilt or twist. New Atlas, 9 Dec. 2025 When making applications, use a rotary or drop spreader for even distribution. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 4 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for spreader

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Spreader.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spreader. Accessed 21 Dec. 2025.

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
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