sensor

noun

sen·​sor ˈsen-ˌsȯr  ˈsen(t)-sər 

1

: a device that responds to a physical stimulus (such as heat, light, sound, pressure, magnetism, or a particular motion) and transmits a resulting impulse (as for measurement or operating a control)

2

: sense organ

Did you know?

Sensors are used today almost everywhere. Radar guns bounce microwaves off moving cars. A burglar alarm may use a photosensor to detect when a beam of light has been broken, or may use ultrasonic sound waves that bounce off moving objects. Still other sensors may detect pressure (barometers) or chemicals (Breathalyzers and smoke detectors). Stud finders, used by carpenters to locate wooden studs under a wall, may employ magnets or radar. Wired gloves, which relay information about the position of the fingers, are used in virtual-reality environments. A cheap car alarm may be nothing but a shock sensor, in which a strong vibration will cause two metal surfaces to come together.

Synonyms of sensor

• detector

Examples of sensor in a Sentence

Image sensors are used in digital cameras.

Infrared sensors can track an object's movement.

Recent Examples on the Web

Its temperature sensor also monitors room temperature and adjusts airflow to ensure the home is never too hot or too cold. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 26 June 2026

The new device is made up of 16 small gas-detecting sensors that identify slight variations in gas molecules including those of common food allergens like walnuts and peanuts that could be life-threatening for those with allergies. — Shirl Leigh june 26, New Atlas, 26 June 2026

Thermal sensors also pick up solar panels, hot factory roofs and sunbaked rock faces, but AI models are built to filter out those false alarms before alerts reach emergency services, according to officials involved in the program. — ABC News, 26 June 2026

These include assessments of propulsion and power generation systems, maneuverability, diving and surfacing performance, navigation and communication systems, sonar and sensor performance, weapons integration, and overall seaworthiness. — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 26 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin sentire to perceive + English -or entry 1 — more at sense

First Known Use

circa 1928, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sensor

• censer
• censor
• denser
• fencer
• tensor
• biosensor
• condenser
• dispenser
• extensor

Kids Definition

sensor

noun

sen·​sor ˈsen-ˌsȯ(ə)r 

ˈsen(t)-sər

: a device that detects a physical quantity (as a movement or a beam of light) and responds by transmitting a signal

Medical Definition

sensor

noun

sen·​sor ˈsen-ˌsȯ(ə)r  ˈsen(t)-sər 

: a device that responds to a physical stimulus (as heat, light, sound, pressure, magnetism, or a particular motion) and transmits a resulting impulse (as for measurement or operating a control)

also : sense organ