provider

noun

pro·​vid·​er prə-ˈvī-dər How to pronounce provider (audio)
Synonyms of providernext
: one that provides
health care providers
an Internet provider
especially : breadwinner

Examples of provider in a Sentence

She works hard and is a good provider. He is the sole provider for his family.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For the healthcare providers in attendance, the party — which featured games and activities for the kids — is a chance to see the real-life impact of their often emotionally challenging work. — Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 29 Aug. 2026 The approach can be especially applicable when several providers in one area use similar equipment. — Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2026 Anyone who has been bitten by a bat or had a potential exposure to a bat should contact a medical provider or the health department at 630-208-3801 as soon as possible, the news release said. — Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 2026 Parents within the West Mifflin Area School District pressed the district and its bus provider for answers at a town hall Thursday after a rocky start to the school year. — Ricky Sayer, CBS News, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for provider

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of provider was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing provider

Rhymes for provider

See All Rhymes for provider

Browse Nearby Words

providently
provider
providing
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Provider.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/provider. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for provider

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