noun

periscope

PEH-rihs-kohp

Periscope (noun) means a tube-shaped viewing device with mirrors or prisms that lets someone see over or around an obstacle. Example: “The submarine crew raised the periscope to scan the surface.”

noun

A tube-shaped viewing device with mirrors or prisms that lets someone see over or around an obstacle.

"The submarine crew raised the periscope to scan the surface."

verb

To raise up and look around cautiously, in the manner of a periscope.

"He periscoped over the fence to see who was there."

How to use periscope

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA device (classically on a submarine) that lets you see around a corner or above the surface without exposing yourself.

Common pairings

raise the periscope periscope depth

Word forms

periscoped past tense, Periscoped past tense, periscopes plural, periscopes singular, Periscopes singular

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “periscope” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The submarine crew raised the _____ to scan the surface.

Etymology

Built in English from peri- ("around") + -scope ("instrument for viewing").

Rhymes for periscope

ope pope mope rope dope hope lope nope cope trope slope grope

See all rhymes for periscope →

Frequently asked questions

What does “periscope” mean?

The word “periscope” means a tube-shaped viewing device with mirrors or prisms that lets someone see over or around an obstacle. In plain terms, a device (classically on a submarine) that lets you see around a corner or above the surface without exposing yourself.

How do you pronounce “periscope”?

“Periscope” is pronounced PEH-rihs-kohp (/ˈpɛɹɪskoʊp/ in IPA).

How do you use “periscope” in a sentence?

Here is “periscope” used in a sentence: “The submarine crew raised the periscope to scan the surface.”

What part of speech is “periscope”?

Depending on how it is used, “periscope” can be a noun and a verb.

How many meanings does “periscope” have?

“Periscope” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a tube-shaped viewing device with mirrors or prisms that lets someone see over or around an obstacle.