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
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The same is true for smoke detectors and sprinkler systems. Dan Avery,liz Knueven, CNBC, 26 Aug. 2025 Many smoke detectors contain about 1 microcurie, or 37,000 becquerels, of americium-241, which is below the exception limit of 5 µCi (185,000 Bq). IEEE Spectrum, 25 Aug. 2025 Thompson is also accused of breaking into her home and replacing the smoke detectors with hidden cameras. Rick Sobey, Boston Herald, 22 Aug. 2025 These inspections include checking smoke detectors, noting if egress routes are clearly marked, and checking things such as exit signs and emergency lighting. Erik S. Hanley, jsonline.com, 19 Aug. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Smoke detector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/smoke%20detector. Accessed 8 Sep. 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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