Detector: meaning, definitions and examples

Used for devices that discover or identify the presence of certain substances, objects, or phenomena.

• The smoke detector went off when the toast burned.
• A metal detector can find hidden metal objects underground.

Describes a device that detects and responds to physical input from the environment, such as light, heat, motion, or pressure.

• The motion sensor turned on the lights as we walked into the room.
• The thermostat uses a temperature sensor to maintain a comfortable environment.

Suggests a warning or alert system that signals the presence of danger or an issue needing immediate attention.

• The fire alarm rang loudly, prompting everyone to evacuate the building.
• She set an alarm to wake up at 6 AM.

Refers to a device or instrument that shows the state or level of something, often used for measurement.

• The fuel gauge on the dashboard acts as an indicator for how much gasoline is left in the tank.
• Economic indicators show that the market is improving.

Commonly used for devices that identify the presence of something, often related to safety or security.

• The smoke detector alerted us to the fire in the kitchen.
• A metal detector is used at the airport for security screening.

Used to describe devices that detect and respond to environmental changes or physical inputs.

• The light sensor automatically turns on the street lights at dusk.
• Temperature sensors are crucial for the HVAC system to maintain comfort.

Used for tools that quantify or measure specific parameters or quantities.

• The scientists used a measuring device to determine the pressure of the gas.
• A measuring device can help determine the exact dimensions of the land.

Typically refers to devices that read or capture data, often related to imaging or data entry.

• The cashier used a scanner to read the barcodes on the items.
• A document scanner can convert paper forms into digital files.

Used as a general term for devices or instruments that identify the presence of a specific element or condition.

• The smoke detector went off when we burned the toast.
• The metal detector beeped when it detected a coin.

Used in contexts where the goal is to identify and measure levels of radiation, often for safety or scientific purposes.

• The radiation detector alerted us to the high levels of radiation in the area.
• Scientists use radiation detectors to study radioactive materials.

Specifically used for devices that count the number of particles in the air, liquid, or other environments, often in scientific or industrial applications.

• The cleanroom is equipped with a particle counter to ensure a contaminant-free environment.
• We used a particle counter to measure the air quality in the factory.

A broad term generally used for devices that detect physical inputs like temperature, pressure, or motion, and often convert them to signals.

• The motion sensor turned on the lights when I entered the room.
• Temperature sensors are crucial for monitoring the conditions in food storage.