Spray Arm
The rotating arm in a dishwasher that distributes pressurized wash water onto the dishes.
Definition
A spray arm is the rotating perforated arm in a dishwasher that distributes pressurized wash water onto the dishes during the wash and rinse phases. Most dishwashers have a lower spray arm under the lower rack, an upper spray arm under the upper rack, and (on premium models) a third spray arm above the third rack. The spray arms rotate by reaction to the water flow rather than by a motor. Clogged spray holes are a common cause of poor cleaning; soak the arms in vinegar and clear individual holes with a toothpick.
Where this term appears
Spray Arm comes up in product spec sheets, service reports, and troubleshooting documentation across most major appliance brands. If you encountered it in a manual or a service description and want context for how it fits into the larger picture, the related articles in the sidebar drill into the practical details. The glossary as a whole is intended as a quick lookup reference; for a deep dive on any specific topic, jump to the related buying guide or troubleshooting article.