Definition

1. Noun:
   • A mechanism that guides a vehicle or projectile toward a specific target: A homing device is an electronic or mechanical system, often using signals like radio waves, infrared, or laser guidance, that directs a missile, torpedo, or other vehicle to its intended destination or objective.
   • A tracking or locating transmitter: In broader usage, a homing device can also refer to a small transmitter attached to an object, animal, or person, allowing its location to be tracked by a receiver.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The torpedo was equipped with an advanced acoustic homing device.
  • Scientists attached a small homing device to the bird to study its migration patterns.
  • The missile's homing device locked onto the heat signature of the enemy jet.

Advanced Usage

• "Passive homing device": A device that guides itself by detecting energy (like sound, heat, or radio waves) emitted by the target, without itself emitting signals.

  • The submarine used a passive homing device that tracked the noise from the ship's propellers.

• "Active homing device": A device that guides itself by emitting energy (like radar or laser pulses) and then detecting the reflection from the target.

  • The active homing device on the missile sent out radar pulses to find its target.

Variants and Related Words

• Homing (adj): Of or relating to the process of guiding toward a target or point of origin.
  • The pigeon has a remarkable homing instinct.
• Homing beacon (n): A transmitter that sends out a signal to guide vehicles or people to a specific location.
• Homing pigeon (n): A pigeon trained to find its way home over long distances.

Synonyms

• Guidance system: A system that provides directional control.
• Seeker (in missile technology): The component of a missile that finds the target.
• Tracking device: A general term for a device used to monitor location.

Related Phrases

• To home in on: To move toward or focus on a target with increasing accuracy.
  • The missile homed in on the radar signal.
  • The detective homed in on the crucial piece of evidence.

Noun

1. the mechanism in a guided missile that guides it toward its objective