sonar

word

/ˈsoʊnɑɹ/
SOH-nar
/sˈəʊnɑː/
SOH-nah

Definition

Sonar is a technology that uses sound waves to detect objects underwater, measure distances, and map the sea floor.

Usage & Nuances

'Sonar' is mainly used in scientific, military, or nautical contexts. It is both a noun (the system) and sometimes an uncountable noun. Do not confuse with 'radar', which uses radio waves (not sound), or with the Spanish verb 'sonar' (to sound).

Example Sentences

The submarine uses sonar to find other ships.

basic

Scientists map the ocean floor with sonar.

basic

The ship detected a whale using sonar.

basic

Thanks to sonar, underwater navigation has become much safer.

natural

Fishermen rely on sonar to locate large schools of fish.

natural

Modern ships upgrade their sonar systems for better accuracy.

natural