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extractor

B2
Uncommon

Pronunciation

UK

  • /ˈɛkstræktə/

US

  • /ɪkˈstræktər/noun

Meanings

Noun

  1. a device or tool that removes or obtains something from somewhere

  2. software that pulls out data or unpacks files

Beyond the definition

An extractor is something used to take one thing out of another. It is often a tool or machine. A dentist may use one to pull out a tooth, and in the kitchen a juice extractor takes juice from fruit or vegetables. The word can also be used for equipment that removes dirt, smoke, or other material, and in computing it can mean a program that pulls data from files or websites. The main idea is simple: it removes or separates what is needed.

Examples

  1. 1

    Kitchen ventilation

    We switched on the extractor fan while we were cooking.

    • Phraseextractor fan

      a fan that removes steam, smoke, or smells from a room

  2. 2

    Kitchen appliance

    She uses a juice extractor every morning to make fresh orange juice.

  3. 3

    Mechanical repair

    The mechanic used a screw extractor to remove the broken bolt.

  4. 4

    Software tool

    The software includes a data extractor that pulls names and dates from PDF files.

See also

Similar

Contrast

Used with (collocations)

  • juice extractor
  • dust extractor
  • screw extractor
  • extractor fan

Word family

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Forms and spellings

2 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • extractornoun

Forms

  • extractorspluralnoun