detection
UK: dɪˈtekʃn | US: dɪˈtekʃn
n. the act or process of discovering or identifying something, especially something hidden or obscure
n. the work of a detective; investigation
n. (electronics) the conversion of a signal into usable information
The word "detection" originates from the Latin detectio (uncovering), derived from detegere (to uncover), combining de- (removal) + tegere (to cover). The morpheme "detect" preserves the core idea of revealing what is hidden, while "-ion" nominalizes the action. Over time, its usage expanded from literal uncovering (e.g., crimes) to technical contexts (e.g., signal detection).
Early detection of diseases improves treatment outcomes.
The detective’s detection of the forgery saved the company millions.
Radar systems rely on the detection of radio waves.
Her sharp detection of the error prevented a data breach.
Wildlife cameras aid in the detection of rare animal species.