Spreader Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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spreader

[หˆsprษ›dษ™r ]

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?

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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?

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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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'spreader'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'spreader' originated from the verb 'spread' which comes from the Old English word 'sprรฆdan', meaning 'to extend, expand, or distribute'. Over time, 'spreader' evolved to refer to various tools and devices used for distributing or spreading different materials.


See also: spread, spreadable, spreading, spreadsheet.

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.