scanner

noun

scan·​ner ˈska-nər 

: one that scans: such as

a

: a device for sensing recorded data (as in a bar code)

a supermarket scanner

b

: a radio receiver that sequentially scans a range of frequencies for a signal

c

: a device that scans an image (such as a photograph) or document (such as a page of text) especially for use or storage on a computer

d

: a medical device for scanning a living body to collect diagnostic information see also ct scanner

Examples of scanner in a Sentence

a price scanner at a supermarket

Recent Examples on the Web

In Westchester County, New York, ballot scanners experienced problems that officials attributed to a programming update, while polling hours were extended at several locations in Pennsylvania and North Carolina following technical issues. — News Editor, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Nov. 2026

While most airports still rely on the 2D scanners, the TSA will continue to roll out the newer models across major airports. — Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2026

Its customizable FitAI software helps consumers find the right shoe in their brand of choice at stores where the Aetrex scanners are installed. — Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 5 Nov. 2026

The Westchester County Board of Elections is an unmitigated embarrassment for not having the scanners and ballots ready for Election Day. — Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 5 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1556, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing scanner

• CAT scanner
• CT scanner

Rhymes for scanner

• banner
• branner
• canner
• fanner
• kanner
• manner
• manor
• planner
• spanner
• tanner

Kids Definition

scanner

noun

scan·​ner ˈskan-ər 

: one that scans: as

a

: a device that senses recorded information

b

: a radio receiver that scans a range of frequencies for a signal

c

: a device that scans an image or document especially for use or storage on a computer

d

: a device for scanning a living body to collect medical information

Medical Definition

scanner

noun

scan·​ner ˈskan-ər 

: a device (as a CT scanner) for making scans of a living body