smoke detector

noun

: an alarm that activates automatically when it detects smoke

called also smoke alarm

Examples of smoke detector in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Seven people are locked up for running a theft ring that included pilfering more than $800,000 in smoke detectors from Home Depot stores across Florida — including Miami-Dade, according to Attorney General James Uthmeier. Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 2 Oct. 2025 Detectives on the scene found smoke detectors without batteries, open and apparently used bottle of lighter fluid, as well as mail and prescription medication allegedly belonging to Brown, according to Johnson. Noelle Alviz-Gransee, Kansas City Star, 29 Sep. 2025 Central station fire alarms and monitored smoke detectors also offer early detection and ensure a fast response from first-responders, Dowling says, which can reduce fire damage severity dramatically. Kristine Gill, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Sep. 2025 Plenty of items and objects emit radiation, from smartphones and microwaves to televisions and smoke detectors. Charles Singh, USA Today, 24 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for smoke detector

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1927, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of smoke detector was circa 1927

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Smoke detector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/smoke%20detector. Accessed 4 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

smoke detector

noun
: an alarm that activates automatically when it detects smoke

called also smoke alarm

More from Merriam-Webster on smoke detector

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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