Detect Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
detect
[dษชหtษkt ]
Definitions
technology
To discover or identify the presence or existence of something.
Synonyms
discern, identify, notice, spot.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| detect |
Used when something not easily noticeable is discovered, often with the help of tools or close observation.
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| identify |
Appropriate when recognizing or confirming the identity of something or someone, often requiring prior knowledge or evidence.
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| discern |
Applicable in situations where one is able to distinguish or recognize differences between things, often using one's judgment or insight.
|
| spot |
Informal and often used when something or someone is seen or noticed, especially when it happens quickly or unexpectedly.
|
| notice |
Used in casual or everyday situations where one becomes aware of something, often suddenly or unexpectedly.
|
Examples of usage
- The security system can detect intruders entering the building.
- The software is designed to detect viruses on your computer.
- The device can detect the presence of harmful gases in the air.
science
To find or discover something, especially using scientific methods.
Synonyms
discover, find, locate, uncover.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| detect |
Used when identifying something, often invisible or hard to notice, like signals, errors, or diseases.
|
| find |
Used in a broad sense for locating, obtaining, or coming upon something, usually with some effort.
|
| discover |
Used when finding something new, significant, or previously unknown, often by chance or through exploration.
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| uncover |
Used when revealing something hidden, secret, or unknown, often implying careful investigation or discovery over time.
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| locate |
Used when determining the exact position or place of something.
|
Examples of usage
- Scientists are trying to detect signs of life on other planets.
- The experiment aims to detect any changes in the environment.
- The test is used to detect the presence of a specific substance.
technology
A device or instrument used to discover or identify the presence of something.
Synonyms
alarm, indicator, scanner, sensor.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| detect |
Use when talking about discovering or identifying something that is not easily visible or obvious. Often used in technical, scientific, or security contexts.
|
| sensor |
Use when referring to a device that detects and responds to changes in an environment, such as temperature, light, or motion. Frequently used in technology and automation.
|
| scanner |
Use when referring to a device that examines or reads something, often converting it into a digital format. Common in medical, security, and document management contexts.
|
| indicator |
Use when referring to something that points to or signals a state or level of something. Often used in measuring, monitoring, or showing progress.
|
| alarm |
Use when referring to a warning signal or a feeling of fear and alertness about possible danger. Can be both physical devices or emotional reactions.
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Examples of usage
- The detector alerted us to the presence of smoke in the room.
- The metal detector can detect hidden objects underground.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Detecting is crucial in scientific research, helping scientists identify new species, elements, or phenomena.
- In the field of medicine, detection methods like MRI and X-rays are essential for diagnosing diseases.
- Detecting changes in the environment is vital for understanding climate change and its impact.
Pop Culture
- Detective stories, whether in books or films, often focus on the theme of uncovering secrets.
- Characters such as Sherlock Holmes and Miss Marple are iconic figures known for their exceptional detecting skills.
- Popular video games often involve detective elements, challenging players to solve puzzles and uncover stories.
Psychology
- Humans can detect emotions by interpreting facial expressions and body language, key in social interactions.
- Neurological studies reveal how the brain detects patterns, helping us make quick decisions in our environments.
- Detecting lies often involves noticing micro-expressions that reveal a personโs true feelings.
Technology
- Modern technology relies on detection systems, like antivirus software that detects malware threats.
- Sensors in devices like smoke alarms detect changes in the environment to trigger alerts.
- Machine learning algorithms are increasingly used to detect anomalies in big data for business insights.
Origin of 'detect'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Latin 'detectus', meaning 'to uncover' or 'to discover'.
- It was borrowed into English in the 16th century, connecting the idea of revealing something that was hidden.
- The prefix 'de-' implies removal or reversal, while 'tect' relates to covering, together meaning to remove a cover.
The word 'detect' originated from the Latin word 'detectus', which means 'uncovered' or 'revealed'. It first appeared in the English language in the late 15th century. Over time, the word has evolved to represent the action of discovering or identifying something with precision, especially in the fields of technology, science, and investigation.
See also: detectable, detecting, detection, detective, detectives, detector, detectors, undetectable, undetected.