sensor

American  

[sen-sawr, -ser] / ˈsɛn sɔr, -sər /

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.

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sensor British  

/ ˈsɛnsə /

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of sensor

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

Example Sentences

Some companies are testing out that kind of wide-ranging sensor.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

It is also testing its sensor array in chip-making facilities.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

Scientists have now produced the first detailed images showing how this sensor works, revealing how it responds both to real drops in temperature and to menthol, the cooling compound found in mint plants.

From Science Daily • Mar. 8, 2026

Samsara rose 9.2% after the developer of internet-connected sensor systems beat analysts’ fourth-quarter profit target and issued strong guidance for the current fiscal year.

From Barron's • Mar. 6, 2026

The blue-and-white tram arrived, and Augustus handed our cards to the driver, who explained that we needed to wave them at this circular sensor.

From "The Fault in Our Stars" by John Green