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spectroscopy

noun

spec·​tros·​co·​py spek-ˈträ-skə-pē How to pronounce spectroscopy (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Imprint Analytics can authenticate cotton, food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals using sequencing methods ranging from isotope-ratio mass spectrometryand gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to near-infrared spectroscopy. Sarah Jones, Sourcing Journal, 18 Nov. 2025 Researchers analyzed these blood samples using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, a highly precise method for studying blood metabolites — molecules that reflect how the body processes sugar, fat, and other nutrients. Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 18 Nov. 2025 Advanced spectroscopy and simulations revealed why. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 4 Nov. 2025 To detect them, Morton's team used spectroscopy, a technique that measures how hot gas moves toward or away from Earth. Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 4 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for spectroscopy

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of spectroscopy was in 1869

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Cite this Entry

“Spectroscopy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spectroscopy. Accessed 28 Nov. 2025.

Medical Definition

spectroscopy

noun
spec·​tros·​co·​py spek-ˈträs-kə-pē How to pronounce spectroscopy (audio)
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)

More from Merriam-Webster on spectroscopy

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