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REFERENCE

sonic

adj.
US //ˈsɑnɪk// UK //sˈɒnɪk// son·ic
  1. 1 relating to sound (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Science

    relating to sound or the way sound waves move.

    relating to sound, sound waves, or the sense of hearing.

    Example

    The scientists used a sonic device to measure the depth of the water.

    Example

    The researchers employed advanced sonic imaging to map the seafloor without disturbing the local marine ecosystem.

    Usage

    Usually placed before the noun it modifies.
  2. 2 speed of sound (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Technical

    having a speed that is the same as or very close to the speed of sound.

    denoting a speed approximately equal to the speed of sound in a given medium, especially air.

    Example

    The jet created a loud noise when it reached sonic speeds.

    Example

    As the aircraft approached sonic velocity, the aerodynamic pressures on the airframe increased significantly.

    Usage

    Often used in technical contexts regarding aviation or physics.
Origin

From Latin sonus + -ic.

Word family

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