Definition of detectionnext
as in discovery
the act or process of sighting or learning the existence of something for the first time my detection of the scent of baked apple pie led me to the kitchen

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of detection Michael Ahdoot, an assistant professor of urology at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles, has conducted extensive research on the role of MRIs in prostate cancer detection. Annalisa Merelli, STAT, 5 Aug. 2026 Afterward, Samuelson and the new dog were set to attend narcotics detection training together in July at Vohne Liche Kennels in rural Indiana, the sheriff's office said. Adam Harrington, CBS News, 5 Aug. 2026 Late detection of cases has been a key contributor to the 45% fatality rate, officials say. ABC News, 5 Aug. 2026 Scientists at the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona reported detections of a lunar plume from the impact. Chelsea Gohd, Space.com, 5 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for detection
Recent Examples of Synonyms for detection
discovery
Noun
  • Prior to the discovery of Dee’s body, her brother shared a theory with detectives.
    Kelly Allen, PEOPLE, 1 Aug. 2026
  • These grim discoveries came out of a brief buddy-cop partnership between Anna and Crystal.
    Hunter Ingram, Variety, 1 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Detection.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/detection. Accessed 8 Aug. 2026.

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