sensor

noun

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

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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.

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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Rotary and Mission Systems sales were up 6% led by higher demand for its integrated warfare system and sensors. Trefis Team, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024 Advanced sensors and multi-surface cleaning capabilities make this robot a game-changer. Mia Meltzer, Rolling Stone, 24 Oct. 2024 Additionally, depth and water temperature sensors, audio playback capabilities, and voice isolation for clearer calls have all been upgraded. Gabriela Vatu, PCMAG, 23 Oct. 2024 Once raised, an array of sensors feeds wind data into a system that calculates the most effective angles and positions of the wing’s four hinged sections. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 23 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sensor 

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of sensor was circa 1928

Dictionary Entries Near sensor

Cite this Entry

“Sensor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensor. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

sensor

noun
sen·​sor ˈsen-ˌsȯ(ə)r How to pronounce sensor (audio)
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
: 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

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