noun

spectrometer

spehk-TROM-ih-tuh

Spectrometer (noun) means a scientific instrument that measures how a substance absorbs or emits light across different wavelengths, used to identify what the substance is made of. Example: “The lab used a spectrometer to confirm the exact composition of the sample.”

noun

A scientific instrument that measures how a substance absorbs or emits light across different wavelengths, used to identify what the substance is made of.

"The lab used a spectrometer to confirm the exact composition of the sample."

"A mass spectrometer can identify tiny traces of a chemical in a mixture."

How to use spectrometer

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA device that reads light to figure out what something is chemically made of.

Common pairings

mass spectrometer infrared spectrometer run a sample through a spectrometer

Word forms

spectrometers plural

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

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

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The lab used a _____ to confirm the exact composition of the sample.

Etymology

From "spectro-" (relating to a spectrum) plus "-meter" ("measuring device"), the same ending found in "thermometer."

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

View more →

mass spectrometer

Rhymes for spectrometer

meter Peter deter Jeter dieter quieter skeeter diameter catheter altimeter trumpeter perimeter

See all rhymes for spectrometer →

Frequently asked questions

What does “spectrometer” mean?

The word “spectrometer” means a scientific instrument that measures how a substance absorbs or emits light across different wavelengths, used to identify what the substance is made of. In plain terms, a device that reads light to figure out what something is chemically made of.

How do you pronounce “spectrometer”?

“Spectrometer” is pronounced spehk-TROM-ih-tuh (/spɛkˈtɹɑm.ɪ.təɹ/ in IPA).

How do you use “spectrometer” in a sentence?

Here is “spectrometer” used in a sentence: “The lab used a spectrometer to confirm the exact composition of the sample.”

What part of speech is “spectrometer”?

“Spectrometer” is a noun.

Where does the word “spectrometer” come from?

The word “spectrometer” comes from Latin. From "spectro-" (relating to a spectrum) plus "-meter" ("measuring device"), the same ending found in "thermometer.".