detector

/dɪˈtɛktə(ɹ)/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: detectors

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A device capable of registering a specific substance or physical phenomenon, and that optionally sounds an alarm or triggers a warning.

Noun

Examples

Smoke detectors are mandatory in public buildings.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A device capable of registering a specific substance or physical phenomenon, and that optionally sounds an alarm or triggers a warning. — An indicator showing the depth of the water in a boiler.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “detector” mean?

A device capable of registering a specific substance or physical phenomenon, and that optionally sounds an alarm or triggers a warning.

Is “detector” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.