What does ultrasonic mean?
“Ultrasonic” describes sound waves with frequencies above the range that most people can hear, a boundary commonly placed at about 20 kilohertz. Because these waves cannot be perceived directly by the human ear, they are used in technology and medicine for purposes such as detecting distances, inspecting materials, cleaning objects, and producing images. The adjective is especially common in phrases such as “ultrasonic sensor,” “ultrasonic testing,” and “ultrasonic imaging.” It is distinct from “supersonic,” which refers to movement faster than the speed of sound rather than to sound frequency. In everyday conversation, people may say “ultrasound” when referring to the waves or an imaging procedure, reserving “ultrasonic” for descriptions of devices, processes, or the frequencies themselves. The word is formal and technical, but it is widely understood in scientific, medical, and industrial contexts.
adjectiveRelating to or denoting sound waves with frequencies above the upper limit of normal human hearing, typically around 20 kilohertz. The term is used especially in technology, medicine, and engineering.
- Relating to sound waves whose frequencies exceed the upper limit of normal human hearing.
"The technician used an ultrasonic device to detect cracks in the metal pipe."
"An ultrasonic sensor measured the distance between the vehicle and the wall."
"The doctor used ultrasonic imaging to examine the patient’s abdomen."
The human ear normally hears frequencies up to about 20 kilohertz; “ultrasonic” names the invisible sonic territory beyond that limit.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of ultrasonic
“Ultrasonic” was formed in the early 20th century from the Latin prefix ultra-, meaning “beyond,” and “sonic,” relating to sound. “Sonic” derives from Latin sonicus, associated with sonus, meaning “sound.” The combination was adopted in scientific usage to describe sound waves beyond the normal range of human hearing.
Related word forms
How ultrasonic is actually used
“Ultrasonic” is primarily a technical term used in science, engineering, medicine, and equipment descriptions. In general medical use, “ultrasound” is often more familiar, while “ultrasonic” emphasizes the high-frequency nature of the sound waves.
Easily confused with ultrasonic
“Ultrasonic” is an adjective describing sound waves, devices, or techniques, whereas “ultrasound” usually names the waves or an imaging technique that uses them.
“Ultrasonic” refers to frequencies above human hearing, while “supersonic” describes speeds greater than the speed of sound.