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microscope
noun
mi·cro·scope
ˈmī-krə-ˌskōp
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
Obviously, Watson was going to be under a microscope the minute the three-time Pro Bowler took his first snap with Cleveland in 2022.
—Vincent Frank, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024
After examining the dishes under a microscope, the scientists found that each dolphin exhaled at least one microplastic particle.
—Taylor Nicioli, CNN, 17 Oct. 2024
Despite having just over four months to run a national campaign from beginning to end—a feat that most presidential candidates in modern history have had over a year to prepare for—Harris continues to be evaluated under a microscope.
—Tonya Evans, Forbes, 15 Oct. 2024
Biopsy: Remove a small sample of kidney tissue to examine under a microscope and identify the cause of AKI.
—Lindsay Curtis, Health, 13 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for microscope
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Word History
Etymology
New Latin microscopium, from micr- + -scopium -scope
First Known Use
1648, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Phrases Containing microscope
Dictionary Entries Near microscope
Cite this Entry
“Microscope.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/microscope. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
microscope
noun
mi·cro·scope
ˈmī-krə-ˌskōp
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
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
Nglish: Translation of microscope for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of microscope for Arabic Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about microscope
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