compressor

noun

com·​pres·​sor kəm-ˈpre-sər How to pronounce compressor (audio)
: one that compresses: such as
a
: a muscle that compresses a part
b
: a machine that compresses gases

Examples of compressor 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.
In cool mode, the fan often stays on while the compressor shuts off, which continuously drains power just to push room-temperature air. — Sheila Kim, The Spruce, 21 June 2026 The turbine drives both a generator, which produces electricity, and the compressor. — Aman Kumar, Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 June 2026 Single-zone units pair a single outdoor compressor to one indoor air handler and are best for individual rooms, garages or an isolated home addition. — Alora Bopray, USA Today, 29 June 2026 In contrast, upgrading compressor or steam systems is bread-and-butter work; large manufacturers are far more comfortable with those standard interventions. — Jasmin Malik Chua, Footwear News, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for compressor

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of compressor was in 1839

Rhymes for compressor

See All Rhymes for compressor

Browse Nearby Words

compressometer
compressor
compressure
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Compressor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compressor. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

compressor

noun
com·​pres·​sor kəm-ˈpres-ər How to pronounce compressor (audio)
: a person or machine that compresses
an air compressor

Medical Definition

compressor

noun
com·​pres·​sor -ˈpres-ər How to pronounce compressor (audio)
: one that compresses: as
a
: a muscle that compresses a part
b
: a machine that compresses gases

More from Merriam-Webster on compressor

Nglish: Translation of compressor for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about compressor

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