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

Published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the work analyzed the state of Ni catalysts using scanning transmission electron microscopy and electron energy loss spectroscopy, together with in situ high energy resolution fluorescence detected X-ray absorption spectroscopy. —Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 26 Mar. 2026

Researchers use vibrational spectroscopy to identify microplastics, which entails measuring how the particle interacts with light to produce what scientists call a chemical fingerprint. —Anne McNeil, The Conversation, 26 Mar. 2026

Using a technique called spectroscopy, this principle can be applied to light from gas clouds, revealing whether the gas is moving toward or away from Earth, and how fast. —Asuka Koda, CNN Money, 5 Mar. 2026

Using a technique called proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS), scientists can measure brain chemicals in real time. —Lauren Manaker, SELF, 5 Mar. 2026

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)