Search Dictionary
Definition of microscope
microscope
/ˈmaɪ.krə.skoʊp/
mi · cro · scope
Adverb:microscopically
•Plural:microscopes
•Adjective:microscopic
microscope Lexical Profile
CEFR
B1
Grade
4
Tier
2
Usage
Top 5k
microscope Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
An optical or electronic instrument used for viewing very small objects, such as cells or microorganisms, typically by magnifying them several hundred times.
Example
"The biology students used a microscope to examine the detailed structure of an onion cell."
2
A state of close, intense scrutiny or critical observation, often used in the phrase 'under the microscope'.
Example
"Following the data breach, the tech company's security practices were put under the microscope by federal regulators."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for microscope• Rhymes for microscope
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Modern Latin 'microscopium', coined in 1625 by Giovanni Faber, derived from the Greek words 'mikros' (small) and 'skopein' (to look at or examine).
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Microscope. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 13, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/microscope