sensor

[sen-sawr, -ser]

noun

1. a mechanical device sensitive to light, temperature, radiation level, or the like, that transmits a signal to a measuring or control instrument.

2. a sense organ.

sensor

/ ˈsɛnsə /

noun

1. anything, such as a photoelectric cell, that receives a signal or stimulus and responds to it

Word History and Origins

Origin of sensor¹

First recorded in 1925–30; sense + -or ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of sensor¹

C19: from Latin sēnsus perceived, from sentīre to observe

Example Sentences

The interceptors are being tested in combat in Ukraine, where they are integrated into the military’s network of sensors that detect intrusions, said Max Enders, Tytan’s head of business development.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Environmental sensors first detected that blaze at 12:12 a.m. on Jan. 1.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Most challenging for families is that many at-risk people can successfully bypass complicated systems of locks and security sensors, even while lacking the verbal or cognitive abilities to seek help once they are lost.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Alongside other international labs, they are also looking into quantum bits -- or qbits -- and sensors.

Read more on Barron's

Waymo said a small fleet of Jaguar I-Pace vehicles fitted with special sensors is already in transit and will start navigating through London in the coming weeks.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal