comparator

noun

com·​par·​a·​tor kəm-ˈper-ə-tər How to pronounce comparator (audio)
-ˈpa-rə-
: a device for comparing something with a similar thing or with a standard measure

Examples of comparator in a Sentence

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.
The decision was framed as technical — centered on questions about trial design and comparator standards — but that is a pretext. — Richard Hughes Iv, STAT, 18 Feb. 2026 On the right is how they are encoded into the elements provided by the THAT, such as integrators and comparators. — Stephen Cass, IEEE Spectrum, 28 Dec. 2023 But some legal experts have observed that the Vullo case could be a relevant comparator if any legal action were undertaken in the matter or similar situations in the future. — Devin Dwyer, ABC News, 19 Sep. 2025 Another useful comparator may be A League of Their Own, Sky’s biggest comedy entertainment series over more than a decade. — Jake Kanter, Deadline, 22 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for comparator

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of comparator was in 1883

Browse Nearby Words

comparativist
comparator
compare
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Comparator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/comparator. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

comparator

noun
com·​par·​a·​tor kəm-ˈpar-ət-ər How to pronounce comparator (audio)
1
: an apparatus used for determining concentration of dissolved substances (as hydrogen ions) in solution by color comparison with known standards
2
: an instrument, device, or set of charts (as for use in chemical analysis and medical diagnosis) for the determination and specification of colors by direct comparison with a standardized system of colors

More from Merriam-Webster on comparator

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about comparator

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