Search Dictionary
Definition of detector

detector

/dɪˈtɛktɚ/
de · tec · tor
Plural:detectors
JUMP TO:

detector Lexical Profile

detector Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A device or instrument designed to sense, measure, or record the presence of a specific physical property, substance, or phenomenon.

Example

"Every bedroom in the new house was equipped with a smoke detector for fire safety."

2

An electronic component in a radio receiver or communication system that extracts information from a modulated wave.

Example

"The engineering students built a simple crystal radio utilizing a diode as the detector."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for detector
Antonyms
View all antonyms for detector

• Rhymes for detector

• Nearby Words

desoto falls
dessert
detax
detector
detergent
detian falls
detox

Word Origin & Etymology

From Late Latin 'detector' (a discoverer or revealer), derived from the Latin verb 'detegere' (to uncover), formed by 'de-' (un-, off) + 'tegere' (to cover).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Detector. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/detector
Wordmom is your complete guide to the English language. Whether you're looking up a definition, searching for the perfect synonym, or unscrambling letters for a word game, our comprehensive suite of tools is designed to help you find the right word, every time.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE®, Words With Friends®, Wordle®, and related game titles or tournament codes are registered trademarks of their respective owners (including Hasbro, Mattel, Zynga, The New York Times, NASPA, and WESPA). Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes, not affiliated with, sponsored, or endorsed by these entities. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use for compatibility.