Definition

Noun: A mine detector is a portable electronic device designed to locate hidden explosive mines, typically by sensing their metal content or other physical properties. It is used for military, humanitarian, and clearance operations.

Usage

The term "mine detector" is used to refer to the specific equipment carried by personnel to sweep an area for buried or concealed landmines. It functions as a compound noun where "mine" specifies the type of detector.

Examples

• The soldier carefully swept the field with a mine detector.
• Humanitarian demining teams rely on advanced mine detectors to make land safe.
• The old mine detector beeped, indicating a possible metallic object underground.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is typically used in its full form. In technical or military contexts, it might be part of a larger noun phrase, e.g., "hand-held mine detector" or "anti-personnel mine detector."

Variants and Related Words

• Metal detector: A more general device for locating metal objects, which shares a similar operating principle but is not specifically designed for mine detection.
• Demining: The process of clearing mines, for which a mine detector is a primary tool.

Synonyms

• Landmine locator
• Mine sweeper (Note: This more commonly refers to a vehicle or ship for clearing mines, but can contextually refer to the device.)

Notes

"Mine detector" is a fixed compound noun. Its meaning is specific and technical, relating directly to the detection of explosive ordnance.

Noun

1. detector consisting of an electromagnetic device; used to locate explosive mines