metal detector

noun

plural metal detectors

: a device that detects the presence of hidden metal: such as

a

: a security device that scans individuals for dangerous objects (such as weapons)

I boarded the plane armed with several frying thermometers, which set off the metal detector …

—Jeffrey Steingarten

Once inside the theater, the crowd had to pass through an airport-style metal detector as a security precaution.

—Richard Zoglin

b

: a handheld apparatus that uses electrical induction (see induction sense 4c) to detect the presence of metallic objects (such as coins or jewelry) buried a short distance underground

A local man using a metal detector stumbled upon the site last March. He found two copper brooches, or pins, measuring four inches across.

—Time for Kids

Examples of metal detector in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Illinois State Capitol has metal detectors, with armed security throughout the building, following a 2004 incident in which a gunman fatally shot an unarmed security guard. —Jack O'Connor, Chicago Tribune, 26 Jan. 2026

At the time, the broad, 140-acre complex had no security checkpoint or metal detectors, and hosted thousands of visitors annually. —Aki Nace, CBS News, 26 Jan. 2026

The state Capitol was wired to support metal detectors during major renovations completed in 2017. —Alex Derosier, Twin Cities, 26 Jan. 2026

While the demonstration appeared peaceful, reporters on site noted a security checkpoint was set up in front of the arena with a metal detector. —Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 24 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for metal detector

• photodetector
• bisector
• collector
• connector
• corrector
• defector
• deflector
• director
• dissector
• effector
• ejector
• elector