I. ˈmīkrəˌskōp noun
Etymology: New Latin microscopium, from micr- + -scopium -scope
1. : an optical instrument consisting of a lens or combination of lenses for making enlarged images of minute objects ; especially : compound microscope — see phase microscope , polarizing microscope , ultramicroscope
2. : an instrument using radiations other than light (as electrons, ultraviolet, or X rays) for making enlarged images of minute objects
electron microscope
II. transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
1. : to look at with or as if with a microscope
microscope a new program
2. : magnify
microscope a minor failing