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
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.
These beeping sounds mean your smoke detector is working. — Sherri Gordon, Health, 25 May 2026 That’s because our brains are home to the amygdala, which acts like an internal smoke detector. — Laura Kiniry, Popular Science, 17 June 2026 Think more even heat, better tasting meals, and less chance of smoke detectors going off mid-dinner, among other benefits. — Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 6 May 2026 No smoke detectors were in the home, which was built in 1908, and there were a number of void spaces between the walls, which firefighters say accelerated the flames. — David Ferrara, Cincinnati Enquirer, 23 Apr. 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

Rhymes for smoke detector

See All Rhymes for smoke detector

Browse Nearby Words

smokechaser
smoke detector
smoke door
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Smoke detector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/smoke%20detector. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of smoke detector for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about smoke detector

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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