range finder

noun

1
: an instrument used in gunnery to determine the distance of a target
2
: a surveying instrument (such as a transit) for determining quickly the distances, bearings, and elevations of distant objects
3
: a usually built-in adjustable optical device for focusing a camera that automatically indicates the correct focus (as when two parts of a split image are brought together)

Examples of range finder in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The company said the spacecraft's laser range finder, or LRF, experienced an anomaly that prevented Resilience from obtaining valid measurements of its distance from the lunar surface. Brett Tingley, Space.com, 24 June 2025 Golfers often camp outside new stores for days ahead of opening for a chance to win golf equipment like iron sets, drivers, putters, range finders, apparel, footwear and more, Mahoney said. Talia McWright, Twin Cities, 14 May 2025 As for the software, open-source enthusiasts have been working for several years on code that not only keeps a copter stable in flight but also maintains whatever altitude the controller commands (based on barometric sensing or an ultrasonic range finder). IEEE Spectrum, 28 Nov. 2012 There are two on the case for attaching an optional range finder, a torch, or other accessories. David Szondy, New Atlas, 18 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for range finder

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of range finder was in 1872

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Cite this Entry

“Range finder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/range%20finder. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

range finder

noun
: a device used to find out the distance of an object (as a target)

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