Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Spreader: meaning, definitions and examples

🔀
Add to dictionary

spreader

 

[ˈsprɛdər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

baking

A tool used to evenly distribute butter, jam, or other spreads onto bread, cookies, or pastries.

Synonyms

butter spreader, knife, spatula.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
spreader

This seems to be a duplicate term, but it generally refers to the same tool used for spreading substances.

  • The spreader made it easy to apply frosting evenly on the cake
knife

A versatile cutting tool that can also be used for spreading if a spreader is not available. However, it is primarily designed for cutting.

  • She used a knife to spread the peanut butter on her sandwich
spatula

Primarily a cooking tool with a wide, flat blade. Often used for flipping or mixing food, but can also be used for spreading in cooking contexts.

  • The chef used a spatula to evenly spread the batter in the pan
butter spreader

Specifically for spreading butter or other soft spreads. Usually has a wide, flat blade and is often seen in dining sets.

  • Please pass the butter spreader so I can add some butter to my roll

Examples of usage

  • The baker used a spreader to evenly coat the bread with butter.
  • She used a spreader to add strawberry jam to the cookies.
  • I need a spreader to evenly distribute the frosting on the cupcakes.
Context #2 | Noun

construction

A device used to spread or distribute material such as concrete, gravel, or fertilizer.

Synonyms

applicator, dispenser, distributor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
spreader

Used for describing a tool or device that distributes materials, typically over a surface. It is common in contexts involving gardening, farming, and construction.

  • The farmer used a spreader to evenly distribute the seeds over the field.
  • We need a spreader to apply the fertilizer across the lawn.
distributor

Used for describing a person, company, or device that delivers or supplies products, often on a larger scale or to various locations. Common in business, logistics, and manufacturing contexts.

  • The company is a major distributor of electronics in the region.
  • They hired a distributor to get their product into more stores.
applicator

Used for describing a tool or device that is used to apply substances directly to a surface or area. Often mentioned in contexts related to cosmetics, glue, and medical treatments.

  • The makeup kit comes with an applicator for the eyeshadow.
  • Use the applicator to spread the glue evenly on the surface.
dispenser

Used for describing a tool or device that releases or dispenses a specific amount of a substance, often with a focus on convenience and controlled dosage. Common in contexts involving soap, tissues, or beverages.

  • The office has a dispenser that provides hand sanitizer for employees.
  • A water dispenser is installed on every floor of the building for convenience.

Examples of usage

  • The construction worker used a spreader to evenly distribute the concrete on the floor.
  • The spreader helped to evenly spread the gravel on the driveway.
  • They used a spreader to distribute fertilizer on the field.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'spreader' comes from the verb 'spread,' which dates back to Old English 'spreadan', meaning to stretch out or extend.
  • Historically, the term was often linked to agricultural tools used to distribute seeds over a field.

Science

  • In biology, a spreader can refer to viruses or bacteria that distribute or transmit diseases from one host to another.
  • Certain species, like dandelions, are natural spreaders as they release seeds that can travel great distances by wind.

Technology

  • In digital contexts, a spreader might refer to software that disseminates information or data across networks, such as malware.
  • Social media platforms act as digital spreaders, allowing users to share posts rapidly with a wide audience.

Education

  • In educational settings, a spreader can be a teaching tool used to distribute materials or information to students.
  • Teachers often act as spreaders of knowledge, helping to distribute ideas and concepts to learners.

Culture

  • In art, a spreader may not only refer to tools for spreading paint but also to artists who distribute their works across various platforms.
  • In food culture, a spreader is any device that helps to share spreads like hummus or cream cheese at gatherings.

Translations

Translations of the word "spreader" in other languages:

🇵🇹 disseminador

🇮🇳 प्रसारक

🇩🇪 Verteiler

🇮🇩 penyebar

🇺🇦 розповсюджувач

🇵🇱 rozpylacz

🇯🇵 散布者 (sanpusha)

🇫🇷 diffuseur

🇪🇸 difusor

🇹🇷 dağıtıcı

🇰🇷 확산기 (hwaksangi)

🇸🇦 ناشر (nashir)

🇨🇿 rozprašovač

🇸🇰 rozprašovač

🇨🇳 传播者 (chuánbò zhě)

🇸🇮 razpršilnik

🇮🇸 dreifari

🇰🇿 тараушы

🇬🇪 გამავრცელებელი (gamavrtselebleli)

🇦🇿 yayılma cihazı

🇲🇽 difusor

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,826, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.