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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Authorities have been and will continue to search for the missing diver with the assistance of side scan sonar, which, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, is specifically used for detecting objects on the seafloor. Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 6 Dec. 2024 Officials are using sonar and other technology to recover the man. Saleen Martin, USA TODAY, 6 Dec. 2024 But the cold case suddenly heated up on Friday when Sullivan and his brother, John Martin, searched the pond in their tiny 6-foot-long boat and their specialized sonar equipment pinged a vehicle at the bottom of the pond. Michael Dorgan, Fox News, 28 Nov. 2024 Emergency crews used boats equipped with sonar and helicopters to attempt to find and rescue people who fell into the water. Victoria Arancio, ABC News, 20 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 21 Dec. 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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