Compressor
noun
noun ·3 syllables ·Uncommon ·Advanced level
Definitions
Noun
- 1 A device that produces pressure, such as a gas compressor that produces pressurized gas.
- 2 a mechanical device that compresses gasses wordnet
- 3 A device that squeezes (compresses).; An instrument for compressing an artery (especially the femoral artery) or other part.
- 4 an electronic device that reduces the dynamic range of an audio signal. wordnet
- 5 A device that squeezes (compresses).; An apparatus for confining or flattening between glass plates an object to be examined with the microscope; a compressorium.
Show 4 more definitions
- 6 A device that squeezes (compresses).; A machine for compressing gases, especially an air compressor.
"The compressor is mounted adjacent to the fuel tank and provides compressed air for operating the locomotive brakes, control gear, sanders and warning horns."
- 7 A device that reduces the dynamic range of an audio signal.
- 8 A muscle that compresses certain parts.
- 9 A program or algorithm for compressing data.
Example
More examples"The compressor is broken; we should buy a new one."
Etymology
From compress + -or, or from New Latin compressor.
Related phrases
More for "compressor"
Data sourced from Wiktionary, WordNet, CMU, and other open linguistic databases. Updated March 2026.