detector

noun

di-ˈtek-tər How to pronounce detector (audio)
Definition of detectornext
as in sensor
a device that detects some physical quantity and responds usually with a transmitted signal a motion detector to thwart burglaries

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of detector The company’s technology – detectors placed every 50 square miles – can identify which lightning strikes are of the long continuing current kind, and therefore, most likely to cause a fire. — Elizabeth MacBride, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026 There are no circumstances in which both detectors will click at the same time. — Chris Lee, ArsTechnica, 22 July 2026 But once the detectors fail and the policies rot, an author telling you the truth is the only signal left. — Luke Stoffel, Fortune, 22 July 2026 On Saturday, rescue crews aided by dogs and detectors found signs of life, confirming that at least one survivor was still trapped beneath the rubble. — ABC News, 19 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for detector
Recent Examples of Synonyms for detector
sensor
Noun
  • Many are built around simpler airframes, compact sensors, and reusable or comparatively inexpensive components.
    — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 25 July 2026
  • On the app side, MyCircadian tracks sunrise, sunset, UV index and sun sessions, MorningLux reads ambient lux through the phone sensor, and OIO by Korrus prescribes a morning bright-light window based on an anchor wake time.
    — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 25 July 2026
Definition of sensor

Phrases Containing detector

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detectives
detector
detectors
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Cite this Entry

“Detector.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/detector. Accessed 30 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on detector

Nglish: Translation of detector for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about detector

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