1. a device or mechanism that causes something to start and stop at intervals
Usage: technical; often used in engineering and electrical contexts
2. a person or thing that intermits or interrupts
Usage: rare; literary

Examples

• The intermitter in the circuit board controls the timing of the electrical pulses.
• An intermitter was installed to regulate the flow of water through the system.
• The device functions as an intermitter, turning the signal on and off at regular intervals.
• Engineers designed an intermitter to prevent continuous operation of the motor.