accelerometer
nounUK /əkˌseləˈrɒmɪtə/
US /əkˌseləˈrɑːmɪtər/
A tool that feels when something speeds up, slows down, or changes direction.
The phone's accelerometer noticed when I turned it sideways.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A device in cars that triggers airbags when it senses a sudden stop.
The accelerometer told the airbag to open during the crash.
3. A part in fitness trackers that counts your steps and movement.
The watch uses an accelerometer to count how many steps you take.
4. A scientific instrument used to measure shaking during earthquakes.
Scientists placed an accelerometer on the ground to record the earthquake.