sensed

Sensed is the past tense and past participle of the verb sense. It denotes that perception has occurred—either through the functioning of the senses, such as sight or hearing, or through a cognitive or intuitive understanding. In typical usage, a person or device that has sensed something has detected or become aware of it.

Etymology: The English verb sense derives from Latin sensus, via Old French sens. The form sensed is produced by the regular English -ed past tense suffix.

Usage: In everyday language, "sensed" can refer to physical perception ('She sensed his frustration') or to detection by an instrument ('The sensor detected a temperature rise'). It is distinct from 'felt' and 'perceived' in nuance; 'sensed' often emphasizes detection of an external stimulus or situational awareness.

In science and technology, sensing is a foundational term. Sensors gather data from the environment, allowing systems to respond automatically. 'Sensed' data may be used for monitoring, control, or analysis, as in weather stations, automotive systems, and robotics.

See also: sense, perception, sensor, sensing, sensation.