ENGLISH
REFERENCE

microscopy

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced US //maɪˈkɹəskəpi// UK //mˈaɪkɹəskəpi// mi·croscopy

n. the use of a microscope to look at things that are too small to see with just your eyes. It is a common way for scientists to study cells or tiny materials.

n. the technical field of using microscopes to view objects and areas of objects that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Often used to refer to the specific techniques or methodologies employed in a laboratory setting.


SIMPLE

The biology class used microscopy to look at plant cells.

CONTEXTUAL

Advances in electron microscopy have allowed researchers to see the internal structures of viruses in great detail.

COMPLEX

While light microscopy remains a fundamental tool in clinical diagnostics, the higher resolution offered by scanning probe techniques has revolutionized our understanding of molecular surfaces.

Origin

From micro- + -scopy.

Usage

Uncountable when referring to the field or technique; occasionally countable when referring to specific types (e.g., 'different microscopies').

© 2026 English Reference