echolocation

noun

echo·​lo·​ca·​tion ˌe-kō-lō-ˈkā-shən 

: a physiological process for locating distant or invisible objects (such as prey) by sound waves reflected back to the emitter (such as a bat) from the objects

Examples of echolocation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These drones can combine echolocation with inertial and other sensor data through the use of sensor fusion, which enhances situational awareness and navigation dependability in challenging circumstances. —Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 2 Nov. 2025

According to researchers, not much is known about the ecology, echolocation and genetics of Mops johorensis in Malaysia. —Lauren Liebhaber, Miami Herald, 30 Oct. 2025

For instance, aquatic mammals also use echolocation to map out the murky depths of the ocean. —Hazlitt, 29 Oct. 2025

Then—for an incredible 23 minutes—the bat’s echolocation squeaks were punctuated by chewing and crunching, even as the animal kept flying. —Meghan Bartels, Scientific American, 9 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1944, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for echolocation

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

Kids Definition

echolocation

noun

echo·​lo·​ca·​tion ˌek-ō-lō-ˈkā-shən 

: a process for locating distant or invisible objects by means of sound waves reflected back to the sender from the objects