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

Many sophisticated components, including sonar, combat management systems, propulsion equipment, and acoustic treatments, are also expected to remain internationally sourced during the early phases before local industry expands its capabilities. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 23 July 2026

Searchers recently found the wreckage of the DC-4 by using an autonomous underwater vehicle equipped with high-resolution sonar to locate the fuselage and separated tail in nearly 2,000 feet of water. — Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 22 July 2026

His pass sonar for the World Cup, which visualises the direction and distance of a player’s passes, illustrates that tendency. — Conor O'Neill, New York Times, 22 July 2026

The search team, which also involved the Deep Sea Vision company, used high-resolution sonar to locate the wreckage on the ocean floor some 2,000 feet below the surface on June 2, the release said. — Rebekah Riess, CNN Money, 21 July 2026

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