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scanner

noun

scan·​ner ˈska-nər How to pronounce scanner (audio)
: one that scans: such as
a
: a device for sensing recorded data (as in a bar code)
a supermarket scanner
b
: a radio receiver that sequentially scans a range of frequencies for a signal
c
: a device that scans an image (such as a photograph) or document (such as a page of text) especially for use or storage on a computer
d
: a medical device for scanning a living body to collect diagnostic information see also ct scanner

Examples of scanner in a Sentence

a price scanner at a supermarket
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The area still has four passenger screening lanes, but each one now comes equipped with a state-of-the-art 3D computed tomography (CT) explosive detection scanner. Vinod Sreeharsha, Miami Herald, 26 Nov. 2025 As part of the investigation, law enforcement recovered an International Mobile Equipment Identity scanner and a bill counter from one of the defendant's homes, according to prosecutors. ABC News, 24 Nov. 2025 Thermal scanners that may have detected that loose connection were not used as part of routine maintenance on Dali's many wires and cables, the investigation found. Jt Moodee Lockman, CBS News, 18 Nov. 2025 Plus, a smart membership deal at Sam's Club and the top photo scanners to bring analog memories into the digital age. Christian Orozco, NBC news, 13 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for scanner

Word History

First Known Use

1556, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of scanner was in 1556

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Scanner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scanner. Accessed 27 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

scanner

noun
scan·​ner ˈskan-ər How to pronounce scanner (audio)
: one that scans: as
a
: a device that senses recorded information
b
: a radio receiver that scans a range of frequencies for a signal
c
: a device that scans an image or document especially for use or storage on a computer
d
: a device for scanning a living body to collect medical information

Medical Definition

scanner

noun
scan·​ner ˈskan-ər How to pronounce scanner (audio)
: a device (as a CT scanner) for making scans of a living body

More from Merriam-Webster on scanner

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