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Definition of oscilloscope

oscilloscope

/əˈsɪləˌskoʊp/
os · cil · lo · scope
Adverb:oscilloscopically
•
Plural:oscilloscopes
•
Adjective:oscilloscopic
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oscilloscope Lexical Profile

oscilloscope Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An electronic test instrument that graphically displays varying electrical voltages, usually as a two-dimensional plot of signal amplitude against time.

Example

"The electrical engineer used an oscilloscope to analyze the irregular waveform produced by the faulty power supply."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for oscilloscope

• Rhymes for oscilloscope

• Nearby Words

oscars
oscillate
oscillation
oscilloscope
oseltamivir
oslo
osmanthus

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 19th century, combining the Latin 'oscillare' (to swing) with the suffix '-scope' (from the Greek 'skopein', to look at or examine), reflecting its use in observing oscillating electrical currents.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

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