separator

noun

sep·​a·​ra·​tor ˈse-pə-ˌrā-tər 

ˈse-ˌprā-tər

: one that separates

especially : a device for separating liquids of different specific gravities (such as cream from milk) or liquids from solids

Synonyms

• divider
• division
• partition
• separation

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

Find it on Amazon Define Your Lashes With This Separating Tool Avoid clumps and spider lashes with this lash separator from MSQ. —Kat Romero, Rolling Stone, 20 Dec. 2024

Closet bins and drawer separators Placing like-items in matching bins and creating compartments in drawers with dividers can help to cut down on visual clutter and achieve a cohesive look. —Christina Pérez, Vogue, 19 Dec. 2024

The materials may have imperfections, causing damage in the already-thin separator. —Tim Moynihan, WIRED, 19 Mar. 2017

Then, after these ores are mined, they are processed into components used in the batteries – cathodes, anodes, separators, and electrolytes. —Steve Banker, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

separator

noun

sep·​a·​ra·​tor ˈsep-ə-ˌrāt-ər 

: 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 

: 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