compressor
n. countable B2 Upper Intermediate US //kəmˈpɹɛsɝ// UK //kəmpɹˈɛsɐ// com·pres·sor
n. a machine that makes gas or air smaller and denser by pushing it into a smaller space. You use this word for devices in fridges, air conditioners, or car engines.
n. a mechanical device that reduces the volume of a gas or vapor to increase its pressure. Typically used in engineering, refrigeration, and automotive contexts.
The compressor makes the air conditioner work.
The technician checked the compressor to see why the fridge was not cooling properly.
Modern heat pumps rely on efficient compressors to move thermal energy from the cold outdoors into the warm interior of a building.
From compress + -or, or from New Latin compressor.