SOS

noun

ˌes-(ˌ)ō-ˈes 

1

: an internationally recognized signal of distress in radio code ‧ ‧ ‧ - - - ‧ ‧ ‧ used especially by ships calling for help

2

: a call or request for help or rescue

Examples of SOS in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The movie will serve as the SOS singer’s acting debut in a feature film. —Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 24 Oct. 2024

Corbett-Jacobs said the car deputies located did not show signs of a crash that could trigger the SOS message, which adds to the family’s suspicions. —Chelsea Bailey, CNN, 14 Oct. 2024

His phone had previously sent an SOS alert to one of his friends in New York City. —Saleen Martin, USA TODAY, 14 Oct. 2024

The Tile Slim also works with the optional Life360 app, which includes a unique feature not found in the Tile app—an SOS alert. —PCMAG, 13 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

SOS

noun

ˌes-(ˌ)ō-ˈes 

ˌes-ə-ˈwes

1

: an international radio code distress signal used by ships and aircraft calling for help

2

: a call for help

Medical Definition

SOS

abbreviation

if occasion require; if necessary

—used in writing prescriptions

Etymology

Latin si opus sit