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Definition of transponder

transponder

/trænˈspɑːn.dɚ/
trans · pon · der
Plural:transponders
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transponder Lexical Profile

transponder Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An electronic device that receives a radio or radar signal and automatically transmits a different signal in response, used for identification, navigation, satellite communication, or electronic toll collection.

Example

"The air traffic controller asked the pilot to verify that the aircraft's transponder was transmitting the correct identification code."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for transponder

• Rhymes for transponder

• Nearby Words

transplantable
transplantation
transplanter
transponder
transport
transportable
transportation

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the 1940s during World War II radar development as a portmanteau blending 'transmitter' and 'responder', both ultimately rooted in Latin.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Transponder. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/transponder
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