noun

spectrometer

spehk-TROM-ih-tuh

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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

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Plural: spectrometers

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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

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mass spectrometer

Rhymes for spectrometer

meter Peter deter Jeter ureter dieter ammeter quieter skeeter diameter catheter altimeter

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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.".