provider

noun

pro·​vid·​er prə-ˈvī-dər How to pronounce provider (audio)
Synonyms of providernext
: one that provides
health care providers
an Internet provider
especially : breadwinner

Examples of provider in a Sentence

She works hard and is a good provider. He is the sole provider for his family.
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 bill would bar a single company from owning both an insurer or PBM and medical providers. — Emma Witman, Fortune, 21 Oct. 2026 However, privacy protections vary by provider, so check how your dedicated IP is assigned and whether it can be linked to your account. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 20 Oct. 2026 The company also is making a play to become a major mobile communications provider, buying up spectrum from other companies. — Los Angeles Times, 20 Oct. 2026 While its intestine program is small, UCLA is a major provider of kidney and other transplants. — ABC News, 20 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for provider

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of provider was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing provider

Rhymes for provider

See All Rhymes for provider

Browse Nearby Words

providently
provider
providing
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Provider.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/provider. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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