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

By shining light onto molecules to analyze these vibrations, techniques such as infrared spectroscopy or Raman spectroscopy can identify these molecules. —IEEE Spectrum, 4 Sep. 2025

Advanced X-ray spectroscopy can reveal the electronic states of common cathode materials such as nickel, cobalt, and manganese, providing insights into how these elements behave as a battery charges or discharges. —Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 3 Sep. 2025

Similarly, in astronomy, larger apertures, advances in photography and spectroscopy, the development of multi-wavelength astronomy beyond the visible light spectrum, and the first space telescopes all brought in new observational data that upended many pre-existing ideas. —Ethan Siegel, Big Think, 28 Aug. 2025

Additionally, because chemicals absorb light at characteristic wavelengths, as starlight passes through the atmosphere of a planet, a process called spectroscopy can be used to determine the chemical composition of that atmosphere. —Robert Lea, Space.com, 27 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing spectroscopy

• Auger electron spectroscopy

Rhymes for spectroscopy

• arthroscopy
• colposcopy
• cystoscopy
• 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)