spotting scope

noun

: a lightweight portable telescope that is usually mounted on a tripod and used for viewing wildlife and terrestrial objects and features

Examples of spotting scope 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.
The Center for Coastal Studies said a Plymouth, Massachusetts resident who was watching whales through a spotting scope on Saturday alerted them that a whale was dragging a buoy. Neal Riley, CBS News, 20 Jan. 2026 Presenters are quick to halt their discussions during their talks, and point out any raptors, so visitors can use provided spotting scopes or their own binoculars to see the animals for themselves. Regina Elling, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Jan. 2026 They’re often located near the top of mature trees Bring binoculars or a spotting scope. Joseph Hernandez, Kansas City Star, 3 Jan. 2026 Kitted out with spotting scopes, binoculars, and wildlife identification guides, the bridge was also, of course, staffed by eagle-eyed officers and expedition crew. Kristen E. Pope, Travel + Leisure, 29 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for spotting scope

Word History

First Known Use

1921, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spotting scope was in 1921

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Cite this Entry

“Spotting scope.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spotting%20scope. Accessed 1 Feb. 2026.

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