< Back
sensor
Definition
A sensor is a device that detects changes in its surroundings and turns those changes into electrical signals. Sensors are used in many different devices, such as thermostats, smoke detectors, and cameras.
For example, a thermostat has a sensor that detects the temperature in a room. When the temperature changes, the sensor sends an electrical signal to the thermostat. The thermostat then turns on the heater or air conditioner to keep the room at the desired temperature.
How can the word be used?
A sensor can be used to detect light, heat, or motion.
Different forms of the word
Noun:
- a device that detects or measures a physical quantity and converts it into a signal that can be read by an observer or by an instrument.
Etymology
The word "sensor" comes from the Latin word "sensus", which means "perception".
The first recorded use of the word "sensor" in English was in the 17th century.
The word "sensor" is a Latin word, and it is related to the English word "sense".
Question
What uses a sensor?