aerator
AIR-ay-ter
/ˈeəreɪtər/
A device that introduces air into a liquid, especially a small mesh attachment on the tip of a faucet.
In home plumbing, it refers specifically to the screw-on tip of a faucet that mixes air with water to prevent splashing and save water.
The story behind the word. The term was coined in the late 19th century as industrial chemistry and sanitation engineering began to realize that mixing oxygen into water improved its taste and helped break down organic impurities. It was later adapted to household faucets in the mid-20th century.
Word relationships
- flow restrictor: A 'flow restrictor' simply limits water volume, while an 'aerator' actively mixes air into the stream to maintain pressure feel.
Commonly confused with
- water filter: A filter purifies water chemically or physically, while an aerator simply mixes air into the stream to shape the flow.
Word family
- aerate (verb): To introduce air into a material.
- aeration (noun): The process of introducing air.
Collocations
- faucet aerator
- clean the aerator
- low-flow aerator
- aerator screen
Example sentences
- "If your faucet is spraying unevenly, unscrew the aerator and clean out the trapped sediment." A guide on fixing low water pressure in a sink.
- "Installing a low-flow aerator on your bathroom faucet is an easy way to reduce water consumption." An article on eco-friendly home upgrades.
Memory hook
An 'aerator' puts 'air' into the 'water' stream. Aerator: Adds air to the flow.
When not to use
Do not use 'aerator' to refer to a water filter, which removes impurities rather than mixing in air.
Fun facts
- Faucet aerators prevent splashing by turning a single, high-velocity stream of water into dozens of tiny, air-cushioned droplets.
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