A device that detects or measures changes in the environment, such as light, heat, motion, or pressure, and responds to them, often by sending a signal. Sensors are used in many machines, from phones to cars.
Formed in English in the early 20th century from 'sense' + the agent suffix '-or', meaning 'that which senses'. It parallels older Latin-based formations like 'motor' and 'actor'.
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