smoke detector

noun

: an alarm that activates automatically when it detects smoke

called also smoke alarm

Examples of smoke detector in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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None of the homes damaged in the fire had working smoke detectors, according to officials. Alexandra Simon, CBS News, 4 Feb. 2026 The result may be a blaring smoke detector, burning eyes, and difficulty breathing. Hallie Milstein, Southern Living, 4 Feb. 2026 First and foremost, New Yorkers should have working smoke detectors and cleared pathways to exits and fire escapes, the chief said. Thomas Tracy, New York Daily News, 30 Jan. 2026 Check the batteries in your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Bebe Hodges, Cincinnati Enquirer, 23 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for smoke detector

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1927, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of smoke detector was circa 1927

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Cite this Entry

“Smoke detector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/smoke%20detector. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

smoke detector

noun
: an alarm that activates automatically when it detects smoke

called also smoke alarm

More from Merriam-Webster on smoke detector

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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