lidar

noun

li·​dar ˈlī-ˌdär How to pronounce lidar (audio)
: a device that is similar in operation to radar but emits pulsed laser light instead of microwaves

Examples of lidar in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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These modifications included installing dedicated research stations and complex wiring to connect payload systems equipped with advanced sensors, such as lidar and infrared spectrometers. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 24 Apr. 2026 For sensing and aiming, the robot uses lidar sensors in its torso to detect its surroundings, along with a stereo camera in its head to calculate distance and angle. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 23 Apr. 2026 Engineers installed wind deflectors and stabilizing plates during construction and used Doppler lidar scanning to monitor wind speeds. Aman Kumar, Encyclopedia Britannica, 8 Apr. 2026 The cars use lidar, radar and 29 cameras along with global positioning and software powered by artificial intelligence for guidance. Brandon Lingle, San Antonio Express-News, 31 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for lidar

Word History

Etymology

light + radar

First Known Use

1963, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lidar was in 1963

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Cite this Entry

“Lidar.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lidar. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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