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

If the caller doesn't know where they are located, the City of Miami Fire Rescue can use a rapid SOS system. —Morgan Rynor, CBS News, 15 Apr. 2026

The deal will power Amazon’s satellites, called Amazon Leo, with direct-to-direct service, enabling emergency SOS and texting in areas without preexisting cell tower service. —Itzel Franco, CNBC, 15 Apr. 2026

Using the remote control, Fan is able to slap a Volvo XC70 with the arm, delivering a dramatic — if obviously sped-up — blow that automatically triggers the car’s emergency SOS mode. —Joe Wilkins, Futurism, 15 Apr. 2026

These include High-output forward beam; Low-output forward beam; Flashing forward beam (9 Hz at 300 lumens); Auxiliary side light (soft illumination for activities like reading); and SOS side light, in which the side light panel alerts other people by flashing red and blue. —Ben Coxworth april 14, New Atlas, 14 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for SOS

• bless
• chess
• cress
• dress
• es
• ess
• esse
• fess
• guess
• jess
• less
• lesse

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