photodetector

noun

pho·​to·​de·​tec·​tor ˌfō-tō-di-ˈtek-tər How to pronounce photodetector (audio)
: any of various devices for detecting and measuring the intensity of radiant energy through photoelectric action

Examples of photodetector in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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To detect weak signals with high precision, the team implemented multiple photodetectors to improve the signal-to-noise ratio. Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 25 Aug. 2025 Rudra used the film to develop a photodetector for infrared light. IEEE Spectrum, 7 Aug. 2025 Each robot also had a photodetector that could sense the polarity of light, allowing basic commands to be sent using a simple flashlight with a polarization filter. Ars Technica, 1 Mar. 2025 The connecting electronics can also be made largely transparent so that the entire photodetector array transmits up to 95 per cent of the light hitting it. The Physics Arxiv Blog, Discover Magazine, 21 Mar. 2024 See All Example Sentences for photodetector

Word History

First Known Use

1947, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of photodetector was in 1947

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Cite this Entry

“Photodetector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/photodetector. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

photodetector

noun
pho·​to·​de·​tec·​tor -di-ˈtek-tər How to pronounce photodetector (audio)
: any of various devices for detecting and measuring the intensity of radiant energy through photoelectric action
… the pulse oximeter incorporates both photodiodes and photodetector in a fingertip sensor that can be clipped or taped to the patient's finger.The New England Journal of Medicine

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