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

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

The court heard McDermid "disappeared from view" before emerging from bushes with his face covered and "holding a metal detector in his right hand".

From BBC • Oct. 22, 2025

On some days, Blanchard will nip over to a local park with a metal detector in hopes of finding lost gold jewelry.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 13, 2025

We were out searching for old coins with his metal detector.

From "Shouting at the Rain" by Lynda Mullaly Hunt