detector

noun

de·​tec·​tor di-ˈtek-tər How to pronounce detector (audio)
Synonyms of detectornext
: one that detects: such as
a
: a device for detecting the presence of electromagnetic waves or of radioactivity
b
: a rectifier of high-frequency current used especially for extracting the intelligence from a radio signal

Synonyms of detector

Examples of detector in a Sentence

using metal detectors to improve safety at airports a motion detector to thwart burglaries
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.
Tech born for space The technology draws from breakthroughs at NASA JPL’s Microdevices Laboratory, where engineers use prisms, gratings, detector arrays, and advanced materials like black silicon, one of the darkest substances ever made, to eliminate stray light and boost precision. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 10 Dec. 2025 An Expandable Six-Layer Security System to support up to six detectors for full 3D surround coverage. Malana Vantyler, USA Today, 10 Dec. 2025 Although all experiments are grounded in the same underlying physics, each makes different approximations and methodological choices based on its unique detector design. Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 4 Dec. 2025 The second season’s best reveal was that Harrison wasn’t just playing Alex, an awkward but well-meaning New Yorker who, as one of the first real friends Charlie has made in years, learns about her lie-detector abilities and tags along on her exploits. Kathryn Vanarendonk, Vulture, 1 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for detector

Word History

First Known Use

1541, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of detector was in 1541

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Detector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/detector. Accessed 16 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

detector

noun
de·​tec·​tor di-ˈtek-tər How to pronounce detector (audio)
1
: one that detects or warns
a smoke detector
2
: a device in a radio receiver for changing the high-frequency current of radio waves into current that can vibrate a loudspeaker to reproduce the original sound

Medical Definition

detector

noun
de·​tec·​tor di-ˈtek-tər How to pronounce detector (audio)
: one that detects
especially : a device for detecting the presence of electromagnetic waves or of radioactivity

More from Merriam-Webster on detector

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