Definition
A single dot on a radar screen representing a target, aircraft, or contact—essentially reducing complex threats to simple blips. It's the military's way of making danger look like a video game.
Example Usage
The air defense radar operator reported three pips inbound from the north at high altitude.
Origin
From early radar technology in WWII where targets appeared as small spots of light on cathode ray tube displays
Fun Fact
The term 'pip' also refers to rank insignia in British military tradition, proving that military jargon enjoys being confusing across multiple contexts.
Source: Radar operation and air defense terminology
Related Terms
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See “pip” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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