: any of various machines (such as a CT scanner or X-ray machine) used to produce diagnostic images of a living body
… we believe that our state-of-the-art NMR imager is more sensitive than our state-of-the-art CT scanner in the evaluation of these diseases. Thus, to exclude suspected disease, NMR is the preferred modality. William G. Bradley, Jr.
b
: an instrument that combines the functions of detection and image production to generate graphic output of extremely high quality for scientific or technical study
The payload includes a descent imager to characterize the landing site's geological context, a stereo imager for high-resolution mapping of the surroundings, a gas analyzer, and an environmental survey package. Robert Burnham
The imager can measure two- and three-dimensional beam-intensity distributions, and it can transfer data to a computer via a video frame grabber.Physics Today
Word History
Etymology
Middle English ymageoure, ymager "one who makes images, sculptor," in part from imagen "to image entry 2" + -eoure, -er-er entry 2, in part borrowed from Middle French imagier, ymageur, derivatives of ymagier "to picture, imagine"