1. to discover or notice something that is hidden or not easily seen
2. to sense or perceive something using instruments or equipment
Usage: technical

Examples

• The security system can detect motion in the hallway.
• Scientists detected traces of water on the planet.
• The smoke detector failed to detect the fire early enough.
• Police dogs are trained to detect illegal drugs.
• The radar detected an approaching aircraft.
• Doctors detected a problem during the routine examination.
• The software can detect viruses on your computer.