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.
Chiefly, engineers will need to design lightweight compressors that can capture and pressurize the whisper-thin Martian air. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 27 Oct. 2026 It is marked with the name Lindamood Planting Company on the side and has an air compressor in the bed, officials said. — Adam Sabes , Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 26 Oct. 2026 The rest of the UltraSlim, including the compressor, condenser, and nearly all the interior components, sit outside the window. — John R. Delaney, PC Magazine, 14 Oct. 2026 This step is what brought us here, to Ponysaurus, filling out the online notice to the tune of a hissing compressor that kept clean air moving through the brewing system. — Jennifer Smith Richards, ProPublica, 2 Oct. 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 29 Oct. 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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about compressor

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