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distributer

distributer

7.4
A device in a car engine that sends electric power to spark plugs in the right order
  • noun
  • /dɪˈstrɪbjuːtər/
  • Specialized
translation icon : distribuidor
  • Without a functioning distributer, the engine cannot fire its spark plugs in the correct sequence.

Examples

  • The mechanic replaced the faulty distributer to restore proper engine timing.

  • Older cars often require periodic maintenance on the distributer to ensure reliable ignition.

  • The distributer ensures the engine runs smoothly.

  • My car's distributer needs to be replaced.

  • The mechanic replaced the faulty distributer to restore proper engine timing.

  • Without a functioning distributer, the engine cannot fire its spark plugs in the correct sequence.

  • Older cars often require periodic maintenance on the distributer to ensure reliable ignition.

Synonyms

distributor
vsdistributer
  • Specialized
7 5.5

A device in a car engine that sends electricity to the spark plugs

is the same term but spelled with an alternative ending
electrical distributor
vsdistributer
  • Archaic
6.6

A device in a car engine that sends high voltage to the spark plugs in the right order

refers to the same part without naming its electrical role

Surface Forms

distributer singular
distributors plural
distributers plural
distributer singular

Morphology

distributer = distribute (transparent) = distribute + er

Standard agent/thing nominalization from the verb 'distribute' using '-er'; meaning is directly derived (one that distributes).

Etymology

Distributer comes from the parts dis- and tribuere, which mean 'apart' and 'to give', so the basic idea is 'to give out'. Think of a car distributer as the part that 'gives out' the spark to each plug in the right order, so it makes the engine fire correctly.