1. radiator(n = noun.object) - any object that radiates energy;
is a kind of natural object
has particulars: radio source
Derived form verb radiate7
2. radiator(n = noun.artifact) - heater consisting of a series of pipes for circulating steam or hot water to heat rooms or buildings;
is a kind of heater, warmer
is a part of heat, heating, heating plant, heating system
3. radiator(n = noun.artifact) - a mechanism consisting of a metal honeycomb through which hot fluids circulate; heat is transferred from the fluid through the honeycomb to the airstream that is created either by the motion of the vehicle or by a fan;
is a kind of mechanism
is a part of cooling system, engine cooling system
has parts: radiator cap
1. That which radiates or emits rays, whether of light or heat; especially, that part of a heating apparatus from which the heat is radiated or diffused; as, a steam radiator. [1913 Webster]
2. Any of various devices for cooling an internal substance by radiation, as a system of rings on a gun barrel for cooling it, or a nest of tubes with large radiating surface for cooling circulating water, as in an automobile. [Webster 1913 Suppl.]
3. An oscillator. [Webster 1913 Suppl.]
radiator, n.
1 a person or thing that radiates.
2 a a device for heating a room etc., consisting of a metal case through which hot water or steam circulates. b a usu. portable oil or electric heater resembling this.
3 an engine-cooling device in a motor vehicle or aircraft with a large surface for cooling circulating water.
Idiom:
radiator grille a grille at the front of a motor vehicle allowing air to circulate to the radiator.