microscope

mi·cro·scope

noun \ˈmī-krə-ˌskōp\

Definition of MICROSCOPE

1

: an optical instrument consisting of a lens or combination of lenses for making enlarged images of minute objects; especially : compound microscope—see light microscope, phase-contrast microscope, polarizing microscope, reflecting microscope, ultraviolet microscope

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

Illustration of MICROSCOPE