n.
Pronunciation: ' f ē -d ə r
Function: noun
Usage: often attrib
Date: 14th century
1 : one that feeds: as a : one that fattens livestock for slaughter b : a device or apparatus for supplying food
2 : one that eats or takes nourishment especially : an animal being fattened or one suitable for fattening
3 a : one that supplies, replenishes, or connects b : TRIBUTARY 2 c : a heavy wire conductor supplying electricity at some point of an electric distribution system (as from a substation) d : BRANCH especially : a branch transportation line e : a road that provides access to a major artery