micrology

[mahy-krol-uh-jee]

noun

1. excessive attention to petty details or distinctions.

Other Word Forms

• micrological adjective
• micrologic adjective
• micrologist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of micrology¹

First recorded in 1650–60, micrology is from the Greek word mīkrología minute discussion, frivolity. See micro-, -logy

Example Sentences

Micrology, mī-krol′o-ji, n. the branch of science which treats of microscopic objects.—adjs.

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Verily, an archangel," Victor would often say, "who should remark the wisdom and virtue observed by mortals in all trifles at their session-tables, altars, receptions, must needs bet his heaven and his wings that we are worth a farthing–or at least something–in greater things; but we all know where the conclusion limps; and this very disgust at the stiff, pedantic, decent micrology and machinery of men is the humor of the satirist.

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In appearance, this marvel of micrology, so far as the eye-piece and upper portions went, was like an ordinary microscope, but its magnifying power was to me unbelievable.

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Nothing that George liked better than botany, metaphysics, and micrology.

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