ENGLISH
REFERENCE

scanner

n. countable
A2 Elementary US //ˈskænɝ// UK //skˈænɐ// scan·ner

n. a machine that looks at a physical document or picture and makes a digital copy for your computer. You can also use it at a shop to read the price on a product.

n. a device that optically examines images, printed text, or objects and converts them into digital data. Often integrated into multi-function printers or used as handheld tools for reading barcodes.


SIMPLE

I need to use the scanner to send you this signed contract.

CONTEXTUAL

The cashier used a handheld scanner to quickly ring up all the groceries in the cart.

COMPLEX

High-resolution scanners allow historians to archive fragile manuscripts without risking damage to the original paper through excessive handling.

Origin

From scan + -er.

Usage

Commonly used in compound nouns like 'barcode scanner', 'flatbed scanner', or 'security scanner'.

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