sonar

noun

so·​nar ˈsō-ˌnär 

: 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

The imagery shows the vessel’s bow still on land, with possible damage to its sonar section. —Reuters, NBC news, 4 June 2025

The crew uses three types of sonars, including one with a scope that provides a live feed that’s almost like an ultrasound, Bussick said. —Gloria Casas, Chicago Tribune, 25 Mar. 2025

Butler described jokes as a kind of sonar that detects like-mindedness. —Lisa Hagen, NPR, 15 Mar. 2025

Harvard researched how to use sonar against Nazi submarines and how to muffle noise in long-range bombers, contributing to the development of fiberglass. —L. Rafael Reif, Foreign Affairs, 6 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

sound navigation ranging

First Known Use

1943, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing sonar

• side-scan sonar

Kids Definition

sonar

noun

so·​nar ˈsō-ˌnär 

: a device for detecting the presence and location of submerged objects (as submarines) by sound waves