First Known Use: circa 1944
Dictionary
transponder
noun tran·spon·der \tran(t)-ˈspän-dər\
: a device that receives a radio signal and sends out a signal in response and that is used especially to show the location of something (such as an airplane)
Full Definition of TRANSPONDER
: a radio or radar set that upon receiving a designated signal emits a radio signal of its own and that is used especially for the detection, identification, and location of objects and in satellites for relaying communications signals
See transponder defined for English-language learners
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of TRANSPONDER
transmitter + responder
Learn More About TRANSPONDER
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: transpontinePrevious Word in the Dictionary: transpolarAll Words Near: transponder
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up transponder? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).