radar
3 synonyms for radar, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A system that detects and tracks objects by sending out radio waves and analyzing the signals that bounce back.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use radar
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
on the radar
under the radar
radar screen
fly under the radar
Etymology
Originally an acronym for "radio detection and ranging", coined by US Navy officers in 1940; it later became an ordinary word in its own right.
Full origin of radar →Frequently asked questions
What does “radar” mean?
The word “radar” means a system that detects and tracks objects by sending out radio waves and analyzing the signals that bounce back. In plain terms, a detection system using radio waves, or informally, a sharp instinct for spotting something.
How do you pronounce “radar”?
“Radar” is pronounced RAY-dah (/ˈɹeɪˌdɑɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “radar” in a sentence?
Here is “radar” used in a sentence: “Air traffic controllers use radar to track planes approaching the airport.”
What part of speech is “radar”?
“Radar” is a noun.
Where does the word “radar” come from?
The word “radar” dates back to around 1940. Originally an acronym for "radio detection and ranging", coined by US Navy officers in 1940; it later became an ordinary word in its own right.
Is “radar” a common word?
“Radar” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “radar” have?
“Radar” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a system that detects and tracks objects by sending out radio waves and analyzing the signals that bounce back.
What does the word "radar" stand for?
"Radar" is an acronym for "radio detection and ranging." It describes a system that detects and tracks objects by sending out radio waves and analysing the signals that bounce back.
What is the difference between "radar" and "sonar"?
"Radar" detects and tracks objects using radio waves, and is used mainly in the air and on land. "Sonar" does a similar job using sound waves and is used underwater, so the two systems suit different environments.
Is "radar" written in capitals?
Although "radar" began as an acronym, it is now treated as an ordinary word and written in lowercase in normal use. You only capitalise it at the start of a sentence, unlike acronyms that are still written in full capitals.
