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

However, its lack of new sensors and premium cost may deter budget-minded buyers. —Shubham Yewale, PCMAG, 12 Nov. 2024

Cost of revenue for lidar sensors and prototypes decreased to $600,000 from $3,339,000, reflecting lower sales volume. —Quartz Bot, Quartz, 8 Nov. 2024

There is always uncertainty about a prediction of displays of the aurora; experts only know the characteristics of a CME when its particles strike the sensors of the DSCOVR and ACE satellites, which orbit Earth about a million miles out. —Jamie Carter, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024

The advanced sensor suites Waymo and Cruise use come at a high cost. —Michael Khouw, CNBC, 4 Nov. 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