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 teen’s body was reportedly recovered from the water the next day after using sonar to search the reservoir. —Abigail Adams, PEOPLE, 17 Oct. 2025

That means no forward-facing sonar or side imaging. —Alex Robinson, Outdoor Life, 16 Oct. 2025

Crystals are a key part of many technologies, powering everything from smoke alarms and TVs to ultrasounds and sonar. —Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 15 Oct. 2025

Pettigrew said the team will use drones, sonar and magnetometers to examine the site before probing the sediment and eventually excavating it using a hydraulic dredge. —Jesus Mesa, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Oct. 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