noun

transponder

tran-SPON-duh

Transponder (noun) means a device that automatically sends out a signal when it receives a particular incoming signal. Example: “Air traffic control tracks planes using the signal from each aircraft's transponder.”

noun

A device that automatically sends out a signal when it receives a particular incoming signal.

"Air traffic control tracks planes using the signal from each aircraft's transponder."

"The tollbooth read the car's transponder as it passed under the sensor."

How to use transponder

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA gadget that replies automatically when it's pinged by the right signal — used in aircraft, tollbooths, and tracking systems.

Common pairings

aircraft transponder radio transponder

Word forms

transponders plural

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Air traffic control tracks planes using the signal from each aircraft's _____.

Etymology

A blend of "transmitter" and "responder."

Rhymes for transponder

sonder yonder wonder ponder Fonder

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Frequently asked questions

What does “transponder” mean?

The word “transponder” means a device that automatically sends out a signal when it receives a particular incoming signal. In plain terms, a gadget that replies automatically when it's pinged by the right signal — used in aircraft, tollbooths, and tracking systems.

How do you pronounce “transponder”?

“Transponder” is pronounced tran-SPON-duh (/tɹænˈspɑn.dɚ/ in IPA).

How do you use “transponder” in a sentence?

Here is “transponder” used in a sentence: “Air traffic control tracks planes using the signal from each aircraft's transponder.”

What part of speech is “transponder”?

“Transponder” is a noun.