microscope

mi-cro-scope · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An optical instrument with lenses that magnify small objects so they can be examined in detail.

  2. 2.

    Any device or technique used for examining something in great detail.

Forms

plural: microscopes

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    under the microscope — subject to close examination or scrutiny
  • •
    electron microscope — a microscope using electron beams for extremely high magnification
  • •
    put something under the microscope — to examine something very carefully

Related words

Antonyms: telescope
See also: biology, lens, magnify, telescope
Synonyms: magnifier

Etymology

From New Latin microscopium, from Greek mikros ("small") + skopein ("to look at, examine"). First used in the early 17th century when optical microscopes were invented.