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 company is integrating sonar, classification software, and future remote neutralization capabilities into a single operational solution. — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 2 Nov. 2026

Unsurprisingly, forward-facing sonar was addressed for this event, and seemingly played into a 50/50 outcome. — Derek Horner, Outdoor Life, 31 Oct. 2026

The 9-and-a-half-foot male shark was tagged by researchers in 2024 and has been detected up and down the outer Cape thousands of times by acoustic sonar. — Neal Riley, CBS News, 21 Oct. 2026

Future versions would also feature a broader array of sensors such as underwater sensors and sonar, as well as larger energy-storage systems. — New Atlas, 17 Oct. 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