radar
Radar (noun) means a system that detects and tracks objects by sending out radio waves and analyzing the signals that bounce back. Example: “Air traffic controllers use radar to track planes approaching the airport.”
How to use radar
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA detection system using radio waves, or informally, a sharp instinct for spotting something.
Since "radar" began life as an acronym, it doesn't need capital letters in modern writing.
Word forms
radared past tense, radars plural, radars singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Air traffic controllers use _____ to track planes approaching the airport.
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.
Synonyms
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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.
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