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
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
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Examples of microscope in a sentence
Students viewed the crystals through a microscope.
Origin and Etymology of microscope
New Latin microscopium, from micr- + -scopium -scope
First Known Use: 1648
MICROSCOPE Defined for English Language Learners
microscope
playDefinition of microscope for English Language Learners
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: a device used for producing a much larger view of very small objects so that they can be seen clearly
MICROSCOPE Defined for Kids
microscope
playDefinition of microscope for Students
: an instrument with one or more lenses used to help a person to see something very small by making it appear larger
Medical Dictionary
microscope
playMedical 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
Learn More about microscope
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See words that rhyme with microscope Spanish Central: Translation of 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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