sensing

from WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006)

sensing
    n 1: the perception that something has occurred or some state
         exists; "early detection can often lead to a cure" [syn:
         {detection}, {sensing}]
    2: becoming aware of something via the senses [syn: {sensing},
       {perception}]

from The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

Sense \Sense\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Sensed}; p. pr. & vb. n.
   {Sensing}.]
   To perceive by the senses; to recognize. [Obs. or Colloq.]
   [1913 Webster]

         Is he sure that objects are not otherwise sensed by
         others than they are by him?             --Glanvill.
   [1913 Webster]