microscopy

noun

mi·​cros·​co·​py mī-ˈkrä-skə-pē How to pronounce microscopy (audio)
: the use of or investigation with a microscope
microscopist noun

Examples of microscopy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Their in-depth analysis combined advanced imaging techniques, such as confocal laser scanning microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, with machine learning algorithms trained to recognize molecular fingerprints of known organisms. Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 7 Apr. 2025 As their shooting technique of choice, the team selected total internal reflection fluorescent microscopy (TIRFM), which illuminates only a tiny section of the sample at a time, reducing phototoxicity to manageable levels. ArsTechnica, 4 Apr. 2025 The researchers analyzed the feathers with electron microscopy as well as chemical tests to both observe the details and how the minerals preserved the feathers. Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 18 Mar. 2025 Laser direct infrared imaging—an advanced form of microscopy using laser light—was used to detect and count the microplastic particles in each bird's lungs. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 28 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for microscopy

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1665, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of microscopy was circa 1665

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Cite this Entry

“Microscopy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/microscopy. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

microscopy

noun
mi·​cros·​co·​py mī-ˈkräs-kə-pē How to pronounce microscopy (audio)
: the use of the microscope : investigation with the microscope

Medical Definition

microscopy

noun
mi·​cros·​co·​py mī-ˈkräs-kə-pē How to pronounce microscopy (audio)
plural microscopies
: the use of or investigation with the microscope

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