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

This is happening because the ocean is absorbing increasing amounts of carbon dioxide and because human activity has disturbed the marine food chains, not because wind developers are using sonar. —Anna Broughel, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2025

Rescue crews resumed their search shortly after 9 a.m. Wednesday, using sonar and a cadaver dog in an attempt to locate Hernandez’s body. —Paulina Czupryna, Chicago Tribune, 6 Aug. 2025

Multiple agencies then began a search operation before Livingston was located by sonar. —Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 31 July 2025

Several agencies arrived at the scene with fan boats, and the Merrill Fire Department alongside the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office conducted an immediate search using sonar. —Jack Albright, jsonline.com, 31 July 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