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

Also available was Emergency SOS, where antennas connect directly to a satellite, enabling messaging with emergency services when outside of cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. —Ramon Padilla, USA TODAY, 17 Sep. 2024

The optional Gold and Platinum memberships, available in the UK, US, Australia and Canada, provide additional benefits, including the ability to contact emergency dispatch services with the Tile’s SOS feature. —Mark Sparrow, Forbes, 16 Sep. 2024

This gives users more screen real estate for checking the time, notifications, iPhone controls, health and fitness tracking, fall detections, SOS alerts and much more. —Rudie Obias, The Hollywood Reporter, 13 Sep. 2024

The Twins, meanwhile, have an SOS of .489, good for the 18th-hardest in the majors. —Ryan Ford, Detroit Free Press, 9 Sep. 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