What are air compressors sometimes referred to as?

Air compressors are often referred to as air pumps because they function by taking in air and compressing it to a higher pressure for various uses, such as powering pneumatic tools, inflating tires, or supplying air for breathing apparatuses. The term "air pump" captures the essential action of these machines—pumping air efficiently while increasing its pressure.

In contrast, while "gas compressors" might also describe air compressors, this term generally encompasses devices that can compress various gases, not just air. "Pressure vessels" refer to containers designed to hold gases or liquids at a pressure substantially different from the ambient pressure, which is not the primary role of an air compressor. "Air misters" relate more to devices that create a fine spray of water combined with air, and do not pertain to the core functionality of compressing air for practical applications. Thus, "air pumps" is the most accurate and commonly used term associated with air compressors.