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

Transportation Security Administration agents shepherded them into and out of metal detectors, sending a steady stream of passengers toward their gates. —Max Klaver, Miami Herald, 24 Oct. 2025

Todd Scott, senior manager of communications at the Hershey Company, told USA TODAY that Hershey products are made under a strict quality and safety program, including metal detectors and visual inspections. —Saleen Martin, USA Today, 22 Oct. 2025

The community is engaged in debate over whether to introduce metal detectors. —Luca Evans, Denver Post, 18 Oct. 2025

At the base, more workers sweep the outflow with metal detectors. —Charlie Campbell, Time, 15 Oct. 2025

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