scan
UK: skæn | US: skæn
vt. to examine closely or systematically
vt. to convert (a document or image) into digital form
vi. to move quickly across or through (e.g., a radar beam)
n. an act of scanning or a digital image
scan = sc<observe> + an<verb suffix>
- sc<observe>: From Latin scandere ("to climb, examine"), later evolving to mean "to analyze rhythmically" (as in poetry) and then "to inspect methodically."
- an<verb suffix>: A simplified form representing the verbal action.
Etymology Origin:
The word "scan" traces back to Latin scandere, originally meaning "to climb" (as in ascending stairs). Over time, it metaphorically shifted to "analyze rhythmically" (like climbing the meter of poetry) and later generalized to "examine thoroughly." The modern sense of "digitally capturing data" emerged with technological advancements.
The doctor will scan the report for any abnormalities.
She scanned the old photo into her computer.
Radar systems scan the sky for aircraft.
The app allows you to scan QR codes instantly.
A quick scan of the room revealed no hidden dangers.