Sensors: meaning, definitions and examples

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sensors

[ˈsɛnsərz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

technology

Devices that detect and respond to changes in the environment or in the activities of the user. Sensors can measure various physical properties such as temperature, pressure, light, sound, and motion.

Synonyms

detectors, probes.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sensors	Use in general contexts when referring to devices that detect changes in the environment, such as temperature, light, or motion. Typically used in technology, engineering, and electronics. The car is equipped with sensors that help it park automatically. Modern smartphones have sensors to track various activities like steps and heart rate.
detectors	Use when referring to devices that discover or identify specific substances, objects, or signals. Typically used in security, scientific research, and medical fields. Smoke detectors are mandatory in all new buildings to ensure safety. Metal detectors are widely used in airports to prevent security threats.
probes	Use when referring to devices that examine or explore something, often in science, medicine, and space exploration. Probes are usually used for more invasive or investigative tasks. NASA launched a new space probe to study the surface of Mars. Doctors use medical probes to detect abnormalities within the body.

Word

Description / Examples

sensors

Use in general contexts when referring to devices that detect changes in the environment, such as temperature, light, or motion. Typically used in technology, engineering, and electronics.

The car is equipped with sensors that help it park automatically.
Modern smartphones have sensors to track various activities like steps and heart rate.

detectors

Use when referring to devices that discover or identify specific substances, objects, or signals. Typically used in security, scientific research, and medical fields.

Smoke detectors are mandatory in all new buildings to ensure safety.
Metal detectors are widely used in airports to prevent security threats.

probes

Use when referring to devices that examine or explore something, often in science, medicine, and space exploration. Probes are usually used for more invasive or investigative tasks.

NASA launched a new space probe to study the surface of Mars.
Doctors use medical probes to detect abnormalities within the body.

Examples of usage

The sensors in the smart home system detect when someone enters the room and adjust the lighting accordingly.
The sensors in the car alert the driver if the vehicle is getting too close to an obstacle.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

biology

Organs or cells that detect stimuli, such as light, heat, or chemicals, and transmit information to the brain for processing. In humans, the skin contains sensory receptors that act as sensors for touch, pressure, and temperature.

Synonyms

detectors, receptors.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sensors	Used to refer to devices or instruments that detect changes in the environment, often involving electrical or mechanical systems. The security system is equipped with motion sensors The car's sensors detected an obstacle
receptors	Mainly used in biological or physiological contexts to describe specialized cells or groups of nerve endings that respond to sensory stimuli. Receptors in the skin detect changes in temperature The body's pain receptors are activated in response to injuries
detectors	Applied when referring to devices specifically designed to discover or identify the presence of a particular substance, object, or condition, often related to safety. Smoke detectors are mandatory in every apartment Metal detectors are used at airports for security checks

Word

Description / Examples

sensors

Used to refer to devices or instruments that detect changes in the environment, often involving electrical or mechanical systems.

The security system is equipped with motion sensors
The car's sensors detected an obstacle

receptors

Mainly used in biological or physiological contexts to describe specialized cells or groups of nerve endings that respond to sensory stimuli.

Receptors in the skin detect changes in temperature
The body's pain receptors are activated in response to injuries

detectors

Applied when referring to devices specifically designed to discover or identify the presence of a particular substance, object, or condition, often related to safety.

Smoke detectors are mandatory in every apartment
Metal detectors are used at airports for security checks

Examples of usage

The sensory neurons in the skin act as sensors to detect pain and send signals to the brain.
The taste buds on the tongue function as sensors to detect different flavors.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'sensus,' meaning 'feeling' or 'perception,' which highlights the purpose of these devices.
The suffix 'or' indicates something that performs an action, linking to how sensors react to stimuli.

Technology

Sensors are essential in smartphones, allowing features like auto-brightness and voice recognition.
In robotics, sensors enable machines to navigate and interact with their surroundings safely and efficiently.
Wearable fitness devices use sensors to monitor heart rate, activity levels, and even sleep patterns.

Science

Environmental sensors can measure air quality, helping us understand pollution and its effects on health.
Biomedical sensors play a crucial role in medical diagnostics, monitoring health metrics like blood sugar and oxygen levels.

Psychology

The way humans and animals perceive their surroundings can inspire sensor technology; understanding natural senses enhances design.
Research in sensory perception helps to improve interface usability in technology, ensuring devices communicate effectively with users.

Art and Design

Interactive art installations often use sensors to respond to audience movements, creating immersive experiences.
Designers integrate sensors into installations to make art that can change or react, creating a dialogue between the artwork and the viewer.

Translations

Translations of the word "sensors" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sensores

🇮🇳 संवेदक

🇩🇪 Sensoren

🇮🇩 sensor

🇺🇦 датчики

🇵🇱 czujniki

🇯🇵 センサー

🇫🇷 capteurs

🇪🇸 sensores

🇹🇷 sensörler

🇰🇷 센서

🇸🇦 أجهزة استشعار

🇨🇿 senzory

🇸🇰 senzory

🇨🇳 传感器

🇸🇮 senzorji

🇮🇸 skynjarar

🇰🇿 сенсорлар

🇬🇪 სენსორები

🇦🇿 sensorlar

🇲🇽 sensores

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,876 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

...
7873 supernatural
7874 conduction
7875 dialog
7876 sensors
7877 picturesque
7878 jurors
7879 suite
...