English dictionary · noun

microscope

an instrument for magnifying very small objects

Meaning and definitions

1. an instrument for magnifying very small objects

Connected roots

• micro-

  small

• scop-

  watching, viewing

Explore the word family

These words share a recorded root connection. A shared root is a learning clue; it does not establish every step in a word’s history.

• telescope

  an optical instrument for making distant objects appear nearer

• microphone

  an instrument for converting sound waves into electrical energy

• horoscope

  The position of the planets and stars at the moment of someone's birth; a diagram of such positions.

• periscope

  a device for viewing over or around obstacles

• microcosm

  Human nature or the human body as representative of the wider universe; man considered as a miniature counterpart of divine or universal nature.

• microbiome

  The genetic information (genomes) of a microbiota.

• microbe

  Any microorganism; (loosely, nonscientifically) especially, a harmful bacterium.

• gyroscope

  An apparatus composed of a wheel which spins inside of a frame (gimbal) and causes the balancing of the frame in any direction or position. In the form of a gyroscopic stabilizer, used to help keep aircraft and ships steady.

• micrometer

  A device used to measure distance very precisely but within a limited range, especially depth, thickness, and diameter.

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