macro

¹

[mak-roh]

adjective

1. very large in scale, scope, or capability.

2. of or relating to macroeconomics.

noun

plural

macros 

1. anything very large in scale, scope, or capability.

2. Photography.,  a macro lens.

3. Also called macroinstruction. Computers.,  an instruction that represents a sequence of instructions in abbreviated form.

4. macroeconomics.

macro-

²

especially before a vowel, macr-.

1. a combining form meaning “large,” “long,” “great,” “excessive,” used in the formation of compound words, contrasting with micro-: macrocosm; macrofossil; macrograph; macroscopic.

macro

¹

/ ˈmækrəʊ /

noun

1. a macro lens

2. Also: macro instruction. a single computer instruction that initiates a set of instructions to perform a specific task

macro-

²

combining form

1. large, long, or great in size or duration

   macroscopic

2. (in pathology) indicating abnormal enlargement or overdevelopment Compare micro-

   macrocyte

3. producing larger than life images

   macrophotography

macro–

1. A prefix meaning “large,” as in macromolecule, a large molecule.

Word History and Origins

Origin of macro¹

Independent use of macro-, taken as an adjective, or by shortening of words with macro- as initial element

Origin of macro²

< Greek makro-, combining form of makrós long; cognate with Latin macer lean; meager

Word History and Origins

Origin of macro¹

from Greek makros large; compare Latin macer _meagre

Example Sentences

Here, their decision is more subjective and susceptible to error — especially at a macro turning point.

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Those tech and media companies command massive subscriber bases that pay monthly subscription fees regardless of the broader macro environment.

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“However, valuation is stretched, capex elevated, free cash flow negative, competition fierce, and the macro treacherous,” the firm wrote.

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“It’s unwise to stand in front of an onrushing train, so let’s see how this one plays out,” said John Hardy, global head of macro strategy at Saxo Bank.

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Shifting macro factors like tariffs and layoffs at the Food and Drug Administration have made investors cautious.

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Related Words

• broad 
• extensive 
• large 
• large-scale 

When To Use

What does macro- mean?

Macro- is a combining form used like a prefix meaning “large; long; great; excessive.” It is often used in scientific terms, especially in biology.Macro- comes from Greek makrós, meaning “long.” The Latin translation of makrós is longus, also meaning “long,” which is the source of terms such as longanimity and longitude. To learn more, check out our entries for both words.What are variants of macro-?When combined with words or word elements that begin with a vowel, macro- becomes macr-, as in macrencephaly. Want to know more? Read our Words That Use article about macr-.