spectroscopy

noun

spec·​tros·​co·​py spek-ˈträ-skə-pē How to pronounce spectroscopy (audio)
1
: the process or technique of using a spectroscope or spectrometer
2
: the production and investigation of spectra

Examples of spectroscopy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Shining light on the Mary Rose: Identifying chemical differences in human aging and handedness in the clavicles of sailors using Raman spectroscopy Maryrose.org. Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 1 Nov. 2024 The research team used Raman spectroscopy, a nondestructive method that preserves valuable samples, to study the bones, Shankland said. Ashley Strickland, CNN, 31 Oct. 2024 The final piece of evidence came with Raman spectroscopy, a technique that uses a laser to identify specific chemical components of a material. Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 21 Oct. 2024 Raman spectroscopy is a technique of chemical analysis that provides detailed information about a substance by using light – a wide range of laser wavelengths – to interact with its chemical bonds. New Atlas, 16 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for spectroscopy 

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of spectroscopy was in 1869

Dictionary Entries Near spectroscopy

Cite this Entry

“Spectroscopy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spectroscopy. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

spectroscopy

noun
spec·​tros·​co·​py spek-ˈträs-kə-pē How to pronounce spectroscopy (audio)
plural spectroscopies
1
a
: the production and investigation of spectra
b
: the process or technique of using a spectroscope or spectrometer
2
: physics that deals with the theory and interpretation of interactions between matter and radiation (as electromagnetic radiation)

More from Merriam-Webster on spectroscopy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!