loader: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral to technical.
Quick answer
What does “loader” mean?
A person, device, or program that loads something.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person, device, or program that loads something.
In computing, a program that loads other programs into memory; in mechanics, a vehicle or machine designed to lift and carry materials; in logistics, a worker responsible for loading goods.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is consistent, but specific machine types (e.g., 'front-end loader' vs. 'wheel loader') may have regional brand preferences.
Connotations
Neutral in both variants.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in American English due to larger industrial and tech sectors.
Grammar
How to Use “loader” in a Sentence
[loader] of [sand/gravel/data][operator] the [loader][start/configure] the [loader]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “loader” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The driver will loader the pallets onto the lorry.
American English
- The driver will load the pallets onto the truck. (Note: 'loader' is not standard as a verb; 'load' is used.)
adverb
British English
- (Not standard)
American English
- (Not standard)
adjective
British English
- The loader bucket needs repair. (Attributive noun use)
American English
- The loader arm is hydraulic. (Attributive noun use)
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to logistics personnel or equipment for moving inventory.
Academic
Used in computer science and engineering papers.
Everyday
Most common when discussing construction vehicles or software issues.
Technical
Precise term in computing (e.g., 'ELF loader') and mechanical engineering.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “loader”
- Using 'loader' for a person who unloads.
- Confusing 'loader' (machine/program) with 'load' (the thing being carried).
- Pronouncing it as /lɒdə/ instead of /ləʊdə/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It can be both, but is more commonly a machine or program. For a person, 'loader' is formal; 'dockworker' or 'stevedore' are more specific.
A loader brings a program into memory for execution. A linker (or link editor) combines separate object files into one executable file that a loader can then load.
No. The correct verb is 'to load'. 'Loader' is only a noun.
A 'front-end loader' or 'wheel loader'—a tractor with a large bucket on hydraulic arms at the front.
A person, device, or program that loads something.
Loader is usually neutral to technical. in register.
Loader: in British English it is pronounced /ˈləʊdə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈloʊdɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “He's the loader of the family (informal: the one who carries the burdens).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a LOADER LOADS things: a program into memory, dirt into a truck, or cargo onto a ship.
Conceptual Metaphor
A BRIDGE or CONDUIT transferring something from a source to a destination.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'loader' LEAST likely to be used?