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

Both listening and active sonar can be foiled by coating the boat with rubber tiles, which absorb noise coming from inside the hull and soak up sonar beams striking the vessel. —New Atlas, 7 Dec. 2025

The submarine will be equipped with USHUS and Panchendriya sonar suites, advanced systems that provide surveillance, targeting, and underwater communications. —Kapil Kajal, Interesting Engineering, 3 Dec. 2025

The search was conducted by side scan sonar and drones in addition to helicopters. —Logan Hall, CBS News, 3 Dec. 2025

The pilot left the vehicle's lights off to save electricity, relying on sonar to get to the bottom. —Jamie L. Lareau, Freep.com, 2 Nov. 2025

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