divider

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a partition, barrier, or other object that separates one area or group from another

   A folding divider separated the work area from the waiting room.

2. 2
   noun

   one of a pair of pointed drafting instruments used to transfer measurements or divide distances

   The surveyor opened the dividers to transfer the distance from the map scale.

3. 3
   noun

   a person, issue, or thing that causes separation or disagreement

   The proposed boundary became a divider between former allies.

Formed from divide + -er. The word first denoted a person or thing that divides; its technical plural dividers names the paired pointed instrument used to step off or transfer measurements.

Topics