scanned; scanning
Definition of scan
(Entry 1 of 2)
1
: to read or mark so as to show metrical structure
scan poetry
2
: to examine by point-by-point observation or checking:
a
: to investigate thoroughly by checking point by point and often repeatedly
a fire lookout scanning the hills with binoculars
b
: to glance from point to point of often hastily, casually, or in search of a particular item
scan the want ads looking for a job
3a
: to examine systematically (as by passing a beam of radiation over or through) in order to obtain data especially for display or storage
scanned the patient's heart radar scans the horizon scan the photos into the computer
b
: to pass over in the formation of an image
the electron beam scans the picture tube
scan
nounDefinition of scan (Entry 2 of 2)
1
: the act or process of scanning
2
: a radar or television trace
3
: an image formed by scanning something: such as
a
: a depiction (such as a photograph) of the distribution of a radioactive material in something (such as a bodily organ)
b
: an image of a bodily part produced (as by computer) by combining ultrasonic or radiographic data obtained from several angles or sections
Buying Guide
Our Reviews team has selected the best scanner for documents and photos.
Test Your Vocabulary
Great Words for Scrabble
-
- Which of the following Q-without-U words means the number five in cards or dice?

Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZ
A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share scan
Time Traveler for scan
The first known use of scan was in the 14th century
See more words from the same century