microscope
MEYE-kruh-skohp
Microscope (noun) means an instrument that uses lenses (or other means) to magnify very small objects so they can be seen clearly. Example: “The students examined the cells under a microscope.”
noun
1
An instrument that uses lenses (or other means) to magnify very small objects so they can be seen clearly.
"The students examined the cells under a microscope."
"Electron microscopes can magnify objects millions of times."
How to use microscope
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn instrument for magnifying tiny objects that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye.
Common pairings
under a microscope
examine under the microscope
put something under the microscope (figuratively)
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Word forms
- Plural
- microscopes
- Third person singular
- microscopes
- Past tense
- microscoped
Fill the gap
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The students examined the cells under a _____.
Etymology
From Greek mikros ("small") and skopein ("to look at"), borrowed via New Latin and Italian — literally an instrument "to look at small things."
Rhymes for microscope
See all rhymes for microscope →Frequently asked questions
What does “microscope” mean?
The word “microscope” means an instrument that uses lenses (or other means) to magnify very small objects so they can be seen clearly. In plain terms, an instrument for magnifying tiny objects that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye.
How do you pronounce “microscope”?
“Microscope” is pronounced MEYE-kruh-skohp (/ˈmaɪ.kɹəˌskoʊp/ in IPA).
How do you use “microscope” in a sentence?
Here is “microscope” used in a sentence: “The students examined the cells under a microscope.”
What part of speech is “microscope”?
“Microscope” is a noun.
Where does the word “microscope” come from?
The word “microscope” comes from New Latin. From Greek mikros ("small") and skopein ("to look at"), borrowed via New Latin and Italian — literally an instrument "to look at small things.".
Is “microscope” a common word?
“Microscope” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
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