microscope

noun mi·cro·scope \ˈmī-krə-ˌskōp\

: a device used for producing a much larger view of very small objects so that they can be seen clearly

Full Definition of MICROSCOPE

: an optical instrument consisting of a lens or combination of lenses for making enlarged images of minute objects; especially : compound microscope

: a non-optical instrument (as one using radiations other than light or using vibrations) for making enlarged images of minute objects <an acoustic microscope>

See microscope defined for English-language learners

See microscope defined for kids

Origin of MICROSCOPE

New Latin microscopium, from micr- + -scopium -scope

First Known Use: 1651

Rhymes with MICROSCOPE

antelope, antipope, arthroscope, biotope, bronchoscope, bunny slope, calliope, cryoscope, endoscope, envelope, episcope, epitope, fluoroscope, forlorn hope, gastroscope, gyroscope, horoscope, interlope, isotope, kinescope, misanthrope, periscope, phalarope, radarscope, slippery slope, sniperscope, spectroscope, telescope

MICROSCOPE Defined for Kids

microscope

noun mi·cro·scope \ˈmī-krə-ˌskōp\

Definition of MICROSCOPE for Kids

: an instrument with one or more lenses used to help a person to see something very small by making it appear larger

Medical Dictionary

microscope

noun mi·cro·scope \ˈmī-krə-ˌskōp\

Medical Definition of MICROSCOPE

: an optical instrument consisting of a lens or combination of lenses for making enlarged images of minute objects; especially : compound microscope—see light microscope, phase-contrast microscope, polarizing microscope, reflecting microscope, ultraviolet microscope

: an instrument using radiations other than light or using vibrations for making enlarged images of minute objects <an acoustic microscope>—see electron microscope, scanning electron microscope, x-ray microscope