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

Advertisement Many who arrived for the event reunited with friends outside the theater before walking through metal detectors and showing identification to access the packed venue. —Colleen Shalby, Los Angeles Times, 8 Oct. 2024

But there were also mandatory metal detector screenings, ID checks, and security guards everywhere. —Kylie Robison, The Verge, 3 Oct. 2024

Cost Of Staffing The biggest issue with metal detectors is the cost of staffing them. —Chris Ciabarra, Forbes, 27 Sep. 2024

Using a combination of metal detectors and wands, Secret Service agents teamed with Transportation Security Administration officers to screen attendees. —Dave Boucher, Detroit Free Press, 20 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above