Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

activator

American  
[ak-tuh-vey-ter] / ˈæk təˌveɪ tər /

noun

  1. a person or thing that activates.

  2. Chemistry, Biochemistry. a catalyst.

  3. any impurity in a mineral that causes luminescence.

  4. Orthodontics. a removable appliance, usually of hard plastic, that is worn in the mouth instead of a fixed appliance to help align the teeth and improve the relationship of the lower jaw to the upper.


Other Word Forms

  • nonactivator noun

Etymology

Origin of activator

activate + -or 2

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Recently introduced immune activator therapeutic monoclonal antibodies for cancer are attempting to break this hiding process.

From Science Daily • May 30, 2024

Müller says that tirzepatide might be a more potent activator of the GLP-1 receptor, and that GIP might help to make GLP-1’s side effects more tolerable, allowing for higher doses.

From Scientific American • Jan. 10, 2023

They added an activator handle on one end and a four-pronged claw on the other.

From New York Times • Jan. 1, 2023

Load the special tablets into the built-in tank activator system when needed.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 6, 2022

She sets the Cog in its installer and presses the activator.

From "The Last Cuentista" by Donna Barba Higuera