sensor

noun

sen·​sor ˈsen-ˌsȯr  ˈsen(t)-sər 

1

: a device that responds to a physical stimulus (such as heat, light, sound, pressure, magnetism, or a particular motion) and transmits a resulting impulse (as for measurement or operating a control)

2

: sense organ

Did you know?

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.

Synonyms

• detector

Examples of sensor in a Sentence

Image sensors are used in digital cameras.

Infrared sensors can track an object's movement.

Recent Examples on the Web

The latter offer larger and newer image sensors, and better color processing as well. —Ben Sin, Forbes, 28 Dec. 2024

If the device is digital, adjust the shutter speed and exposure length to settings that allow enough light to hit the sensor. —Matt Morris, Space.com, 27 Dec. 2024

To be sure, this BMW is brimming with cutting-edge technology—sensors, circuits, and servos monitoring, calculating, and reacting a thousand times per second. —Nick Czap, Robb Report, 26 Dec. 2024

For this new robotaxi, Waymo was able to reduce the number of cameras on board from 29 to 13 and lower the number of costly lidar sensors on board from five to four. —Lora Kolodny,jennifer Elias, CNBC, 26 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin sentire to perceive + English -or entry 1 — more at sense

First Known Use

circa 1928, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

sensor

noun

sen·​sor ˈsen-ˌsȯ(ə)r 

ˈsen(t)-sər

: a device that detects a physical quantity (as a movement or a beam of light) and responds by transmitting a signal

Medical Definition

sensor

noun

sen·​sor ˈsen-ˌsȯ(ə)r  ˈsen(t)-sər 

: a device that responds to a physical stimulus (as heat, light, sound, pressure, magnetism, or a particular motion) and transmits a resulting impulse (as for measurement or operating a control)

also : sense organ