metal detector

American  

noun

1. an electronic device for detecting the presence of metal objects, as one used as a portable sweeping unit or one emplaced in an archway at an airport terminal to detect concealed weapons, explosives, etc.

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metal detector British  

noun

1. a device that gives an audible or visual signal when its search head comes close to a metallic object embedded in food, buried in the ground, etc

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Example Sentences

“I could spend all night in the water searching,” he says, sweeping his arm back and forth, an imagined metal detector in his hand.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

There was also the sound of a generator, which would require a permit, a check-in table, a metal detector and a temporary wall with branding, Sterling said.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2026

Passing through the building’s security, one woman set off a metal detector with her hip, another with her knees.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 1, 2025

To get into the room, I showed my driver’s license to security guards outside, passed through a metal detector, and took the elevator up to the 12th floor.

From Slate • Oct. 10, 2025

You’re checking the park with a metal detector!

From "Feed" by M.T. Anderson