Definition
A device that detects a physical condition such as pressure, temperature, position, motion, or light, and converts it into a signal — usually electrical — that can be measured, displayed, or used by another system.
Plain English
A part that picks up something happening in the real world (like heat or movement) and turns it into a signal an instrument or computer can use.
Context Anchor
Seen in cockpit instruments, engine monitoring, warning systems, and aircraft system descriptions.
Derivation
From the Latin sentire, meaning 'to feel' or 'to perceive.' A sensor is literally something that 'feels' a condition and reports it.
Why Pilots Care
Sensors supply the accurate data needed for instrument readings, engine management, and automated systems, directly affecting flight safety and performance.
Intuition Check
A sensor is not the same as the cockpit display. The sensor detects the condition; the display or system shows or uses the information.
Example Sentence 1
The outside air temperature sensor feeds data to the air data computer, which uses it to calculate true airspeed.
Example Sentence 2
Air data sensors measure outside air temperature and pressure to calculate true airspeed.