scanner

noun

scan·​ner ˈska-nər How to pronounce scanner (audio)
: one that scans: such as
a
: a device for sensing recorded data (as in a bar code)
a supermarket scanner
b
: a radio receiver that sequentially scans a range of frequencies for a signal
c
: a device that scans an image (such as a photograph) or document (such as a page of text) especially for use or storage on a computer
d
: a medical device for scanning a living body to collect diagnostic information see ct scanner

Examples of scanner in a Sentence

a price scanner at a supermarket
Recent Examples on the Web The man was in shock — the scanner showed his ticket was a winner. Daniella Segura, Miami Herald, 27 May 2024 For quick repairs without investing in a scanner, look to MyHeritage, which is better known for its genealogy services than its photo editing. Jennifer Jolly, USA TODAY, 9 May 2024 First responders rescued the person on the crane, according to emergency scanner traffic and witness accounts. Chyna Blackmon, Charlotte Observer, 6 May 2024 This 1974 scanner rests out of view in the National Museum of American History’s electronic collection. Kovie Biakolo, Smithsonian Magazine, 17 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for scanner 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'scanner.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1556, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of scanner was in 1556

Dictionary Entries Near scanner

Cite this Entry

“Scanner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scanner. Accessed 5 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

scanner

noun
scan·​ner ˈskan-ər How to pronounce scanner (audio)
: one that scans: as
a
: a device that senses recorded information
b
: a radio receiver that scans a range of frequencies for a signal
c
: a device that scans an image or document especially for use or storage on a computer
d
: a device for scanning a living body to collect medical information

Medical Definition

scanner

noun
scan·​ner ˈskan-ər How to pronounce scanner (audio)
: a device (as a CT scanner) for making scans of a living body

More from Merriam-Webster on scanner

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!