1. an object that strikes or collides with another object, especially in space or scientific contexts
Usage: scientific; astronomy
2. a tool or device designed to deliver forceful blows or impacts
Usage: technical

Examples

• The asteroid was identified as the impactor that created the large crater.
• Scientists studied the impactor’s composition after the collision.
• The pneumatic impactor drove the posts deep into the ground.
• Researchers analyzed debris from the meteorite impactor.
• The construction crew used a hydraulic impactor to break up the concrete.
• Evidence suggests a massive impactor caused the dinosaurs’ extinction.
• The impactor left a distinctive pattern in the rock formation.