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

Entering the building late that spring morning meant passing through a metal detector. —David Sedaris, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026

District officials were unable to confirm whether metal detectors are currently in use or whether they could be implemented in the future. —Brady Halbleib, CBS News, 13 Apr. 2026

According to Barker, one of the best ways to hold up the line is to try to walk through the metal detector with something in your pocket. —Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 11 Apr. 2026

For security purposes, attendees must pass through metal detectors upon entering the grounds, and all bags are subject to search. —Samantha Stutsman, PEOPLE, 9 Apr. 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