spectroscopy

noun

spec·​tros·​co·​py spek-ˈträ-skə-pē 

1

: the process or technique of using a spectroscope or spectrometer

2

: the production and investigation of spectra

Examples of spectroscopy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

To assess how Hina batteries compare to more advanced Tesla batteries, Schütte’s team used a non-destructive technique called impedance spectroscopy to measure the uniformity of 120 sodium-ion battery cells. —Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 28 May 2026

The astronomers used high-resolution spectroscopy, orbital motion, and even theoretical simulations to interpret the stars' chemical and orbital characteristics. —Julian Dossett, Space.com, 27 May 2026

Between the first 10 hours and three days after birth, the team observed how the newborns’ brains reacted to German, Hebrew and French by using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), a noninvasive imaging technique that measures changes in blood oxygenation in the brain. —Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 23 May 2026

Such spectroscopy is a powerful technique for in-depth studies of celestial objects, capable of revealing their rotation, motion, composition, distance, and much more. —Phil Plait, Scientific American, 15 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing spectroscopy

• Auger electron spectroscopy

Rhymes for spectroscopy

• arthroscopy
• fluoroscopy
• colonoscopy
• laparoscopy

Medical Definition

spectroscopy

noun

spec·​tros·​co·​py spek-ˈträs-kə-pē 

plural spectroscopies

1

a

: the production and investigation of spectra

b

: the process or technique of using a spectroscope or spectrometer

2

: physics that deals with the theory and interpretation of interactions between matter and radiation (as electromagnetic radiation)