detector

noun

di-ˈtek-tər How to pronounce detector (audio)
Definition of detectornext
as in sensor
a device that detects some physical quantity and responds usually with a transmitted signal a motion detector to thwart burglaries

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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 detector That has led scientists to consider stellar streams as potential detectors of dark matter. — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 31 Aug. 2026 The 1970s saw electronic detectors take over for photographic plates, increasing the detector sensitivity by an order of magnitude. — Don Figer, The Conversation, 27 Aug. 2026 Billboard on Tuesday also affirmed its goal to be transparent about what songs on its chart were made with AI, working with Luminate’s new proprietary AI detector to determine which songs that rank on its charts are made with the technology. — Corbin Bolies, Variety, 25 Aug. 2026 Below are five additional detectors at Amazon, some of which double as smoke alarms or check for other gases that are bad for your health. — Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for detector
Recent Examples of Synonyms for detector
sensor
Noun
  • From radar tracks to tactical decisions The system combines radar and other sensor information with a causal model designed to determine why a vessel might be manoeuvring in a particular way.
    — Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Generation 8 of the platform offers a strong torso, arms, and head on a wheeled platform, with significant improvements in manufacturability and sensor data.
    — John Koetsier, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of sensor

Phrases Containing detector

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detectives
detector
detectors
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Cite this Entry

“Detector.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/detector. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on detector

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about detector

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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