Asdic

/ˈæzdɪk/ noun

Definition

An early form of sonar technology used to detect submarines underwater by sending sound waves and listening for echoes.

Etymology

Acronym from 'Anti-Submarine Detection Investigation Committee,' a British WWII-era acronym that became a word. Developed during World War II as a critical naval technology.

Kelly Says

ASDIC is a perfect example of an acronym that became a word—British sailors said 'asdic' so often that it became the standard name for the technology, and it was only later replaced by the American term 'sonar' after the war!

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