detection

noun

de·​tec·​tion di-ˈtek-shən How to pronounce detection (audio)
Synonyms of detectionnext
1
: the act of detecting : the state or fact of being detected
2
: the process of demodulating

Synonyms of detection

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Examples of detection in a Sentence

I don't know how the errors managed to avoid detection for so long. my detection of the scent of baked apple pie led me to the kitchen
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The use of an ECG alone has detection levels of up to 85 per cent, but some studies suggest an even greater rate for what are known as ‘silent killers’, where the vast majority display no symptoms before cardiac arrest. — Jordan Campbell, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2026 Rather, the neural signals associated with threat detection and pain were most acute when people were merely anticipating the test. — Sian Leah Beilock, The Atlantic, 5 Sep. 2026 Initially, the group aired jingles on the radio and distributed flyers around Ife, stressing the importance of early detection. — Caleb Hellerman, CNN Money, 4 Sep. 2026 The agents discussed ways to bypass restrictions, solve evaluation tasks, and avoid detection. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 4 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for detection

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of detection was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing detection

Rhymes for detection

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Browse Nearby Words

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detection
detective
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Cite this Entry

“Detection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/detection. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on detection

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about detection

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