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Definition of microscope

microscope

/ˈmaɪ.krə.skoʊp/
mi · cro · scope
Adverb:microscopically
•
Plural:microscopes
•
Adjective:microscopic
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microscope Lexical Profile

microscope Game Scores & Validity

• 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

microprocessor
microproof
microscooter
microscope
microscopic
microscopically
microsecond

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).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Microscope. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/microscope
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