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

The military can use large drones, outfitted with all manner of sensors – from powerful traditional cameras to infrared sensors – for surveillance. —Clare Duffy, CNN, 13 Dec. 2024

Using a variety of sensors and other data, AI systems are helping with predictive maintenance of critical infrastructure and equipment. —Ron Schmelzer, Forbes, 12 Dec. 2024

Along with the connectivity upgrade, these silver spears can pack up to six sensors, whereas earlier generations might have only had one. —Sal Vaglica, WIRED, 11 Dec. 2024

This set has 14 weather-resistant sensors for every club in your bag. —Christopher Murray, Fox News, 11 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