sensor
noun
ˈsen(t)-sər
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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
New Atlas, 1 Mar. 2025
In contrast, the original system relied on physical hardware, such as mirrors and sensors, to optimize the beams.
—Michael Kan, PCMAG, 28 Feb. 2025
In past phone versions, Apple’s Touch ID fingerprint sensor was integrated into a phone’s home or power button.
—Cheryl Winokur Munk, CNBC, 28 Feb. 2025
That's why this guide doesn't get too deep into the weeds of megapixel counts, sensor sizes, and pixel peeping.
—Scott Gilbertson, WIRED, 26 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for sensor
Cite this Entry
“Sensor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensor. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.
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sensor
noun
Medical Definition
sensor
noun
ˈsen(t)-sər
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