# contributor

/kənˈtɹɪbjətɝ/ (US) · /kəntɹˈɪbjuːtɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/contributor
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. writer or artist

noun · CEFR B2

a person who writes articles or provides content for a magazine, website, or book.

For teachers: a person who provides articles, photographs, or other content for a publication or media outlet.

- She has been a regular contributor to the local newspaper for over ten years.
- The editor invited several guest contributors to provide expert commentary on the recent economic shifts for the special anniversary edition.

### 2. donor

noun · CEFR B2

someone who gives money or help to a charity or a specific cause.

For teachers: an individual or organisation that donates money, resources, or effort to a fund or cause.

- The museum thanked every contributor who helped pay for the new art gallery.
- Major contributors to the relief fund were acknowledged in the annual report for their significant financial support during the crisis.

### 3. causal factor

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

a person or thing that helps cause something to happen or grow.

For teachers: a factor or agent that is instrumental in the development, creation, or occurrence of a particular result.

- Poor diet is often a major contributor to heart disease.
- Analysts identified high interest rates as a primary contributor to the decline in consumer spending over the last fiscal quarter.

## Examples

- She is a regular contributor to the local charity.
- The magazine's lead editor thanked every contributor for meeting the tight deadline during the holiday season.
- While lifestyle choices are a major contributor to heart disease, genetic factors also play a significant role in determining an individual's overall risk profile.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.