imager

noun

im·​ag·​er ˈi-mi-jər 

plural imagers

: one that produces an image: such as

a

: any of various machines (such as a CT scanner or X-ray machine) used to produce diagnostic images of a living body

… we believe that our state-of-the-art NMR imager is more sensitive than our state-of-the-art CT scanner in the evaluation of these diseases. Thus, to exclude suspected disease, NMR is the preferred modality.

—William G. Bradley, Jr.

b

: an instrument that combines the functions of detection and image production to generate graphic output of extremely high quality for scientific or technical study

The payload includes a descent imager to characterize the landing site's geological context, a stereo imager for high-resolution mapping of the surroundings, a gas analyzer, and an environmental survey package.

—Robert Burnham

The imager can measure two- and three-dimensional beam-intensity distributions, and it can transfer data to a computer via a video frame grabber.

—Physics Today

Examples of imager in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

They're often integrated into the software of these imagers. —Kristen Jordan Shamus, Detroit Free Press, 10 Dec. 2024

The imager gathers light across the visible and near-IR spectrum from its perch aboard the ISS. —IEEE Spectrum, 5 Nov. 2024

At night, attacks on the headlights of moving vehicles are possible, or the use of FPV drone with a thermal imager. —David Hambling, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024

Then an X-ray tomography imager goes deeper, revealing interconnects and components buried within the circuit board. —IEEE Spectrum, 4 Oct. 2018

Word History

Etymology

Middle English ymageoure, ymager "one who makes images, sculptor," in part from imagen "to image entry 2" + -eoure, -er -er entry 2, in part borrowed from Middle French imagier, ymageur, derivatives of ymagier "to picture, imagine"

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above