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Microscope Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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microscope

[maɪkroʊskaɪp ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

scientific tool

A microscope is an optical instrument used to see objects that are too small to be seen by the naked eye. It magnifies the appearance of small specimens, allowing for detailed examination. Microscopes are commonly used in biology, material science, and various applications in laboratory environments.

Synonyms

lens, magnifier, optical instrument.

Examples of usage

  • The biologist used a microscope to study the bacteria.
  • Students learned how to prepare slides for the microscope.
  • With a microscope, we could observe the cell structure clearly.
  • The scientist adjusted the microscope to focus on the sample.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Microscopes are essential in biology and medicine because they allow scientists to study cells, bacteria, and other microorganisms.
  • There are two main types: light microscopes, which use visible light, and electron microscopes, which use beams of electrons for higher magnification.
  • Some modern microscopes can magnify objects up to 10 million times their actual size, providing incredible detail.

History

  • The invention of the microscope marked a significant shift in scientific discovery, paving the way for advances in microbiology and genetics.
  • In the 1800s, the development of compound microscopes led to significant discoveries, including the identification of microorganisms as agents of disease.
  • The discovery of penicillin was facilitated by microscopic studies of fungi, showcasing the impact of this tool on medicine.

Pop Culture

  • Microscopes have appeared in various films and TV shows, often linked to the theme of discovery and exploration of the unknown.
  • In cartoons, you'll often find characters using a microscope to solve mysteries, showing its association with curiosity and scientific investigation.

Technology

  • Advancements in microscopy technology have led to techniques like fluorescence microscopy, which allows scientists to mark specific parts of a cell and see them glow.
  • Super-resolution microscopy, developed in the 21st century, can surpass the traditional limits of light microscopy, providing unprecedented detail of cellular structures.

Origin of 'microscope'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek words 'mikros' meaning small and 'skopein' meaning to look or see.
  • It was first used in the 17th century when scientists began experimenting with lenses to see objects that the naked eye couldn't.
  • The term was popularized by the Italian scientist Galileo, who used an early version of the microscope.

The word 'microscope' originates from the Greek words 'micros' meaning 'small' and 'skopein' meaning 'to look at' or 'to examine'. The term was first coined in the early 17th century as the use of such instruments became more widespread in scientific inquiry. Initially, microscopes were simple devices made with lenses that allowed scientists to investigate the microscopic world. The development of the microscope significantly advanced biological and medical sciences by enabling the discovery of cells, microorganisms, and other small structures, paving the way for modern biology and medicine. As technology advanced, microscopes evolved from basic compound types to sophisticated electron microscopes capable of magnifying objects at a molecular level.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,392 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.