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

As Carns spoke, the amphibious landing vessel, docked at the gateway to the Mediterranean, was being loaded with ammunition and mine-hunting sea drones equipped with sonar. —Emma Burrows, Los Angeles Times, 25 May 2026

As Carns spoke, the amphibious landing vessel, docked at the gateway to the Mediterranean, was being loaded with ammunition and mine-hunting sea drones equipped with sonar. —Emma Burrows, Fortune, 24 May 2026

The sea drones equipped with sonar produce a picture of objects under the water, from fishing traps to pipelines. —ABC News, 23 May 2026

Currently, radar, sonar, medical ultrasound, and wireless communication systems struggle in crowded, noisy environments. —Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 19 May 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