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

• 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

Devices like the Hero Arm, equipped with advanced sensors to replicate natural hand movements, offer valuable benefits for children's growth, health, and overall well-being. —Andy Biggs, Newsweek, 25 Dec. 2024

The mountain is covered with scientific instruments, from ground sensors that measure the shaking of the mountain to tools that analyze the gases released from the volcanic vents. —David Bressan, Forbes, 24 Dec. 2024

Nonetheless, unmanned systems and sensors could be leveraged to establish an effective monitoring system along the cease-fire lines. —Samuel Charap, Foreign Affairs, 24 Dec. 2024

But my favorite feature, albeit passive, is the motion sensor. —Julian Chokkattu, WIRED, 23 Dec. 2024

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

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