v.
(scans, scanning, scanned)
- look at quickly in order to identify relevant features or information.
- traverse with a detector or an electromagnetic beam, especially to obtain an image.
▸cause (a beam) to traverse across a surface or object.
▸resolve (a picture) into its elements of light and shade in a prearranged pattern for the purposes of television transmission.
▸convert (a document or picture) into digital form for storage or processing on a computer.
- analyse the metre of (a line of verse) by reading with appropriate intonation or by examining the pattern of feet or syllables.
▸(of verse) conform to metrical principles.
n.
- an act of scanning.
- a medical examination using a scanner.
▸an image obtained by scanning or with a scanner.
Derivative
Etymology
ME: from L. scandere ‘climb’ (in late L. ‘scan (verses)’), by analogy with the raising and lowering of one's foot when marking rhythm; later arose the senses ‘analyse’ and ‘look at searchingly’.