phase-contrast microscope

noun

: a microscope that translates differences in phase of the light transmitted through or reflected by the object into differences of intensity in the image

called also phase microscope

Word History

First Known Use

1947, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

phase-contrast microscope

noun

: a microscope that translates differences in phase of the light transmitted through or reflected by the object into differences of intensity in the image

called also phase-difference microscope, phase microscope