sonar

noun

so·​nar ˈsō-ˌnär How to pronounce sonar (audio)
: a method or device for detecting and locating objects especially underwater by means of sound waves sent out to be reflected by the objects
also : a device for detecting the presence of a vessel (such as a submarine) by the sound it emits in water

Examples of sonar in a Sentence

They detected the submarine by using sonar.
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Construction noise Anti-wind activists and conspiracy theorists on social media contend that the noise of wind turbine construction can dangerously disorient whales — which use sonar to orient themselves — leading to strandings. Lindsey Leake, Fortune, 11 Oct. 2024 Since the discovery, the river has been searched using sonar, divers, a drone and cadaver dogs, Bay City Deputy Public Safety Director Rodrick Schanck said. Gina Kaufman, Detroit Free Press, 25 Sep. 2024 This ability is so precise, in fact, that scientists are studying it to improve the sonar systems used in submarines and other naval applications. Scott Travers, Forbes, 12 Oct. 2024 Maps were largely created using single-beam sonar technology similar to today's commercially available depth- and fish-finders. CBS News, 2 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sonar 

Word History

Etymology

sound navigation ranging

First Known Use

1943, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sonar was in 1943

Dictionary Entries Near sonar

Cite this Entry

“Sonar.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sonar. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

sonar

noun
so·​nar ˈsō-ˌnär How to pronounce sonar (audio)
: a device for detecting the presence and location of submerged objects (as submarines) by sound waves

More from Merriam-Webster on sonar

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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