magnifying glass

American  

noun

1. a lens that produces an enlarged image of an object.

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magnifying glass British  

noun

1. a convex lens used to produce an enlarged image of an object

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Etymology

Origin of magnifying glass

First recorded in 1655–65

Example Sentences

Do you really think that foreign governments are at this point, with a magnifying glass, looking at our markets and thinking something might be about to happen?

From Slate • Mar. 31, 2026

The paper was covered in flow charts, arrows and text so minuscule you almost needed a magnifying glass to read it.

From Salon • Sep. 9, 2025

“This is very different from other philanthropy. We have a different magnifying glass looking at us,” Reale said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 23, 2025

Pattern maker Mar Marcote has been with the business 42 years and still uses a magnifying glass to examine each item of clothing before it finally goes into production.

From BBC • May 8, 2025

He had a table in the middle of the room where he sat to look at his specimens through a magnifying glass or simple microscope, and to read his scientific papers.

From "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith" by Deborah Heiligman