noun
scanner
SKA-nuh
noun
1
A device that converts paper documents or images into digital files.
"He fed the contract through the office scanner."
"The scanner jammed halfway through the stack of receipts."
2
A device that reads barcodes at a checkout or in a warehouse.
"The cashier waved the scanner over each item."
"The scanner beeped to confirm the price."
3
A radio receiver that sweeps across frequencies to pick up transmissions, such as police or emergency radio.
"A police scanner crackled in the background of the newsroom."
4
A medical imaging device that uses X-rays, ultrasound, or similar technology to see inside the body.
"The hospital scanner produced a clear image of the fracture."
How to Use Scanner
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA machine that reads something — a document, a barcode, a radio signal, or the inside of your body — and turns it into information.
Common pairings
barcode scanner
police scanner
CT scanner
Word Forms
scanners plural
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He fed the contract through the office _____.