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Glite Dictionary
racon

racon

9.9
A radar device on buoys or ships that sends back a signal to show position
  • noun
  • /ˈreɪ.kɒn/
  • Specialized
translation icon : racon
  • A racon is often mounted on buoys to assist with marine navigation in poor visibility.

Examples

  • The ship's racon activated when it detected the radar signal.

  • The coastguard vessel used its racon to signal its position to nearby ships.

  • Pilots relied on the racon to avoid hazards during foggy conditions.

  • Many vessels rely on a racon for accurate navigation.

  • A racon is often mounted on buoys to assist with marine navigation in poor visibility.

  • Pilots relied on the racon to avoid hazards during foggy conditions.

  • Many vessels rely on a racon for accurate navigation.

Synonyms

radio beacon
vsracon
  • Specialized
1 4.1

A device that sends radio signals to guide ships or aircraft

sends replies only when pinged by radar rather than continuous broadcast
radar beacon
vsracon
  • Specialized
6.5

A device that receives radar signals and sends a coded signal back to help ships or planes find their position

is the same device but named as a short technical abbreviation

Surface Forms

racon singular
racons plural

Etymology

Racon comes from a short form of radar and beacon, so you can read it as 'radar beacon'. A helpful way to remember it is to think of a small device that 'replies' to a radar signal to show its position, which is why a racon helps ships and planes find where they are.