Definition

A system that uses radio waves to detect and locate objects, such as airplanes or ships, by analyzing the waves that bounce back from them.

Example

The airplane was detected by radar as it approached the airport.

Conversation

Have you seen the new radar system they installed at the airport?

Yeah, I heard it can track planes much better than the old one.

It's impressive how technology improves our radar capabilities.

Absolutely! It makes flying a lot safer for everyone.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Radar is an acronym for "Radio Detection and Ranging," where "radio" (from Latin *radius*, meaning ray) refers to the electromagnetic waves used, "detection" (from Latin *detegere*, meaning to uncover) refers to the act of discovering or identifying, and "ranging" (from Latin *range*, meaning to arrange or set in order) refers to determining the distance. The term combines these elements to describe a system that uses radio waves to detect and determine the distance of objects.

Memory Tip

Think of 'radio' as the waves used to 'detect' and measure the 'range' of objects, which helps you remember that radar is a system for detecting and measuring distances.

Visually Confused Words