microscope

noun

mi·​cro·​scope ˈmī-krə-ˌskōp How to pronounce microscope (audio)
1
: an optical instrument consisting of a lens or combination of lenses for making enlarged images of minute objects
especially : compound microscope
2
: a non-optical instrument (such as one using radiations other than light or using vibrations) for making enlarged images of minute objects
an acoustic microscope

Examples of microscope in a Sentence

Students viewed the crystals through a microscope.
Recent Examples on the Web Explore The Chemical Brothers See latest videos, charts and news The three and a half decades of shows, albums and block-rockin’ beats that have ensued since are under the microscope in the latest Chemical Brothers offering, Paused in Cosmic Reflection. Katie Bain, Billboard, 7 May 2024 Jeff Bezos’ fiancée, who has been under the microscope for some risqué fashion choices, rocked a strapless Oscar de la Renta gown with a billowy skirt bedecked with mirrors. Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 7 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for microscope 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'microscope.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

New Latin microscopium, from micr- + -scopium -scope

First Known Use

1648, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of microscope was in 1648

Dictionary Entries Near microscope

Cite this Entry

“Microscope.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/microscope. Accessed 14 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

microscope

noun
mi·​cro·​scope ˈmī-krə-ˌskōp How to pronounce microscope (audio)
1
: an optical instrument consisting of a lens or a combination of lenses for making enlarged or magnified images of minute objects
2
: an instrument using radiation other than light for making enlarged images of very small objects

Medical Definition

microscope

noun
mi·​cro·​scope ˈmī-krə-ˌskōp How to pronounce microscope (audio)
1
: an optical instrument consisting of a lens or combination of lenses for making enlarged images of minute objects
2
: an instrument using radiations other than light or using vibrations for making enlarged images of minute objects
an acoustic microscope
see electron microscope, scanning electron microscope, x-ray microscope

More from Merriam-Webster on microscope

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