phased array: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical / Scientific
Quick answer
What does “phased array” mean?
A system of antennas where the relative phases of the signals fed to each antenna element are controlled to electronically steer the radiation pattern without physically moving the antennas.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A system of antennas where the relative phases of the signals fed to each antenna element are controlled to electronically steer the radiation pattern without physically moving the antennas.
A type of antenna array used in radar, sonar, and communications systems where the beam direction is controlled by varying the phase relationship between individual radiating elements, enabling rapid scanning and beam shaping capabilities.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. British English may use 'aerial' more often than 'antenna' in non-technical contexts, but 'antenna' is standard in technical discussions of phased arrays.
Connotations
Identical technical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally specialized/technical in both varieties, appearing primarily in engineering, physics, and military contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “phased array” in a Sentence
The [military/aircraft/satellite] uses a phased array [for radar/for communications]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “phased array” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The phased-array technology offers superior tracking capabilities.
- We examined phased-array antenna designs.
American English
- The phased-array system provides rapid scanning.
- Phased-array radars are common on modern warships.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare except in defense/aerospace industry contexts discussing product specifications.
Academic
Common in electrical engineering, physics, and telecommunications research papers.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Standard terminology in radar engineering, sonar systems, satellite communications, and medical ultrasound imaging.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “phased array”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “phased array”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “phased array”
- Using 'phase array' without the -d (correct: phased array).
- Confusing with 'phased' as in 'phased implementation' (different meaning).
- Using as a verb (it's always a noun).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a two-word compound noun, typically hyphenated when used attributively (e.g., phased-array radar) but often left open in technical literature.
In an active phased array, each antenna element has its own transmit/receive module. In a passive phased array, a single transmitter/receiver feeds all elements through phase shifters.
Yes, phased arrays can be transmit-only, receive-only, or both. The beamforming principles apply identically to transmission and reception.
Yes, modern 5G smartphones use small phased arrays in their antennas for beamforming to improve signal strength and reduce interference.
A system of antennas where the relative phases of the signals fed to each antenna element are controlled to electronically steer the radiation pattern without physically moving the antennas.
Phased array is usually technical / scientific in register.
Phased array: in British English it is pronounced /feɪzd əˈreɪ/, and in American English it is pronounced /feɪzd əˈreɪ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a choir where each singer's timing (phase) is slightly adjusted to make the sound seem to come from different directions without anyone moving — that's a phased array for radio waves.
Conceptual Metaphor
A coordinated team where individuals adjust their timing to direct collective energy toward different targets.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary advantage of a phased array system?