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

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

Visibility was low in the murky river and divers were using sonar to hunt for the missing pieces. —Ted Shaffrey, Chicago Tribune, 11 Apr. 2025

The department was using sonar units and drones to assist, as well as K-9 units, the TV station reported. —Jonathan Limehouse, USA Today, 22 Apr. 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