separator

noun

sep·​a·​ra·​tor ˈse-pə-ˌrā-tər How to pronounce separator (audio)
ˈse-ˌprā-tər
Synonyms of separatornext
: one that separates
especially : a device for separating liquids of different specific gravities (such as cream from milk) or liquids from solids

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
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.
Tyson is an explosive separator with acrobatic body control. Andrew Greif, NBC news, 24 Apr. 2026 His ability to navigate tight spaces on the court, create his own offense and find teammates has been a major separator. Lawrence Dow, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Apr. 2026 Most major-league organizations have access to all the biometric technology, but a willingness to invest in that area and, perhaps most importantly, understanding and properly interpreting what the data and information shows and how to apply it is quickly becoming a separator among teams. Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 22 Mar. 2026 Inside the cell, the thin separator between the negative and positive electrodes is then at risk of being breached by these dendrites, leaving the positive side of the battery exposed. New Atlas, 13 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for separator

Word History

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of separator was in 1607

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Separator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.grautoblog.com/dictionary/separator. Accessed 26 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

separator

noun
sep·​a·​ra·​tor ˈsep-ə-ˌrāt-ər How to pronounce separator (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce separator (audio)
: 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

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