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photodetector

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌfoʊtəˈdɛktər/

KK: /ˈfoʊtoʊdɪˌtɛktər/

noun
Definition

A device that senses and measures light or other forms of electromagnetic radiation.


Example

The photodetector is essential for capturing images in digital cameras.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you heard about the new photodetector technology they are using in cameras?
Sloth B
Yeah, it sounds really interesting!
Sloth A
I read that it can improve low-light performance significantly.
Sloth B
That would be awesome for night photography!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sensor
detector
receiver
Antonyms
emitter
transmitter
source
Root Explanation

Photodetector → It is formed from "photo-" (from Greek "phōs", meaning light) and "detector" (from Latin "detegere", meaning to uncover or reveal). The word "photodetector" refers to a device that uncovers or reveals information by detecting light.

Memory Tip

Think of 'light' ('photo-') being 'revealed' ('detector') by a device — that's what a photodetector does.

Visually Confused Words
autodetector
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