detection

noun

de·​tec·​tion di-ˈtek-shən How to pronounce detection (audio)
1
: the act of detecting : the state or fact of being detected
2
: the process of demodulating

Examples of detection in a Sentence

I don't know how the errors managed to avoid detection for so long. my detection of the scent of baked apple pie led me to the kitchen
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.
Safety features standard include adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection and lane centering. James Raia, Mercury News, 19 Oct. 2025 The two went on to work together over the years to raise awareness, funds and legislation for cancer research and early detection. Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 19 Oct. 2025 It is expected to have a detection volume of about 30 cubic kilometers, making Hunt the largest neutrino telescope ever built. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2025 Arrigoni says that, while other companies that have specialized in deepfake detection are now having a harder time considering how lifelike Sora videos have become, the facial recognition tools Loti uses are making things easier to find, even with new videos coming rapidly. Brian Welk, IndieWire, 17 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for detection

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of detection was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Detection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/detection. Accessed 20 Oct. 2025.

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