Translate monitor | into French | into German | into Italian | into Spanish Definition of monitor
noun
1an instrument or device used for observing, checking, or keeping a continuous record of a process or quantity:a heart monitor a person operating a monitor. a person who observes a process or activity to check that it is carried out fairly or correctly, especially in an official capacity:the independent judicial monitor a person who listens to and reports on foreign radio broadcasts and signals. a raised section of roof running down the center of a railroad car, building, etc., providing light or ventilation; a clerestory.
2a student with disciplinary or other special duties during school hours:show the hall monitor your pass
3a television receiver used in a studio to select or verify the picture being broadcast from a particular camera. a screen that displays an image generated by a computer. a loudspeaker, especially one used by performers on stage to hear themselves or in the studio to hear what has been recorded.
4 (also monitor lizard) a large tropical Old World lizard with a long neck, narrow head, forked tongue, strong claws, and a short body. Monitors were formerly believed to give warning of crocodiles. - Family Varanidae and genus Varanus: many species. See also Komodo dragon
5 historical a shallow-draft armored warship mounting one or two heavy guns for bombardment.
verb
[with object] observe and check the progress or quality of (something) over a period of time; keep under systematic review:equipment was installed to monitor air quality maintain regular surveillance over:it was easy for the enemy to monitor his movements listen to and report on (a foreign radio broadcast or a telephone conversation). check or regulate the technical quality of (a radio transmission or television signal).
