microstructure

American  

[mahy-kroh-struhk-cher] / ˈmaɪ kroʊˌstrʌk tʃər /

noun

Metallurgy.

1. the structure of a metal or alloy as observed, after etching and polishing, under a high degree of magnification.

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microstructure British  

/ ˈmaɪkrəʊˌstrʌktʃə /

noun

1. structure on a microscopic scale, esp the structure of an alloy as observed by etching, polishing, and observation under a microscope

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Etymology

Origin of microstructure

First recorded in 1880–85; micro- + structure

Example Sentences

Aluminum's strength depends heavily on its microstructure, particularly the size and density of tiny internal features called "precipitates."

From Science Daily • Dec. 29, 2025

Nonetheless, they warn that these “rotations can work for brief periods, but unless there is a structural shift in the economy, the microstructure of the equity market almost ensures such rotations will be short-lived.”

From Barron's • Nov. 19, 2025

The eggshell microstructure indicates that these crocodiles likely nested along the edges of a lake and adjusted their reproductive strategies as conditions shifted over time.

From Science Daily • Nov. 15, 2025

"It is challenging to design experiments that can capture the movement of boundaries and the details of how the microstructure evolves, particularly in the early stages of ordering," says senior author Yuichiro Koizumi.

From Science Daily • May 30, 2024

To obtain the best results in machining, the microstructure of the metal should be determined and a hardness range set that covers the variations in structure that produce good machining results.

From The Working of Steel Annealing, Heat Treating and Hardening of Carbon and Alloy Steel by Colvin, Fred H. (Fred Herbert)